GUES Make-A-Wish Foundation Fundraiser

iSpring is in the air, flowers are in bloom, and at GUES that means it is time for Elementary Idol. This year all proceeds from this event benefited the Make- A -Wish Foundation. This foundation grants wishes to children from 2 ½ through 18 years of age who are battling life threatening illnesses. The Make-A-Wish Foundation was founded in 1980 after a little boy realized his heartfelt wish to become a police officer.

Since its humble beginnings, the organization has blossomed into a worldwide phenomenon, reaching more than 193,000 children around the world. A network of nearly 25,000 volunteers enables the Make-A-Wish Foundation to serve children all over the United States. Volunteers serve as wish granters, fundraisers, special events assistants and in numerous other ways.

In Grenada, Mrs. Dolly Marascalco leads this effort. In preparation for this upcoming event Mrs. Marascalco shared her enthusiasm for this worthy cause. Mrs. Marascalco has been involved with this foundation for over seven years and has helped grant six wishes within Grenada County. She states, “Being associated with this foundation and seeing the smiles on the children’s faces as their wishes are made possible has enriched my life immensely.”

On Thursday, March 31st, GUES had a very successful production of their annual Elementary Idol talent show. All proceeds from this event went to the Make A Wish Foundation that grants wishes for children with serious medical conditions. Approximately 50 students participated in the competition that ranged from singing, dancing, to karate. A total of 23 acts entertained the student body and many parents at two performances during the day, and a third performance attracted a very large audience that night. Winners from the day performances were chosen by the votes of their peers. Students could contribute a dollar and place a vote for their favorite act. Winners chosen by this method were: First Place - Austin Beach singing “Amazing Grace,” Second Place - Lynsey Kilgore, Brianna Shaw, Hanna Wilbourn, and Haley Williams dancing to “Super Girl,” Third Place - Jackson Five (Tripp McCrory, Jared Barnes, Benji Kendall, Quen Thompson, and Jakeddrick Robinson) singing “Rockin’ Robin.”

The finalists for the night performance were chosen by a panel of judges. First Place went to the Jackson Five, Second Place to Easton Curry performing karate to the song “Hero,” and Third Place, to the dancing troupe performing “SuperGirl.”

Not only was there a fun-filled day and night for participants, friends, and family, but GUES was able to raise $3500 for Make A Wish, an achievement beyond our original goal! GUES was proud to be a part of such a worthy cause that has benefited some of our very own. A special thanks goes to Mrs. Dolly Marascalco for her efforts on behalf of this successful endeavor.