Middle Schooler Organizes Walkathon to Help Charity

When Danielle Stefania first learned about St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and the important and life-saving work they do there every day, she knew it was a cause she wanted to do her part to help.

"I was watching TV one day and saw a commercial for the hospital. And I said: 'You know what, it would be a good idea to create a walkathon to help raise money for St. Jude's," she told Patch.

And that is just what the seventh grader did.

Danielle has organized a , which will take place at track today from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The enterprising youngster said she expects many family, friends and middle school community members to donate and attend today's walk.

She is especially excited about Big Y supermarket donating water for today's walk, and the fact that the event will have a DJ.

"And we'll even have a raffle and everything," she said.

Although organizing the walkathon has taken quite a bit of Danielle's free time — outside of school and other commitments — the 12-year-old said she has had some special help: her younger sister.

"Kayla was a big help," Danielle said of the student.

Danielle is hoping to raise $1,000 through the walkathon.

The team has already raised $300, and the young organizers said she is hopeful the event will hit, or even exceed, its fundraising goal for St. Jude's Hospital.

"It takes $1.6 million a day to run their operation. And that's a lot of money," Danielle said. 

"I like to help people," she said. "And this is helping people."