The holidays are a time to give thanks and be grateful for the things we have. This year HooplaHa - Only Good News wants to say thank you to these special kids - our heroes! Over the past year, we have met many people (and animals) with incredible stories and these three kids are part of the reason why we love doing what we do.
1) Shane Boylan
After his dad lost the battle with his depression and took his life, Shane wanted to make sure this never happened to any family again. In conjunction with the Hope for Depression Research Foundation, Shane set up the Depression Doesn't Ride 10-mile bike ride fundraiser in their town of Highland Park, New Jersey in honor of his father and to help raise money to cure depression.
2) Emily Inch
With the passion of helping others in her heart, Emily began donating toys and clothes to children who needed them at a young age. After doing her own research, Emily discovered that more than 4,000 children in her hometown of Pineville experience homelessness and one of their most pressing needs is shoes. This motivated her to start her own organization called Soles for Kids Shoe Drive.
3) Zoe Butchen
After her father was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, Zoe decided she had to do something to help her dad and the cause. Inspired by her lifelong love of dance, Zoe's campaign "Dance, Shake, Donate" encourages people to post videos of themselves dancing and make a contribution to the Michael J. Fox Foundation.
Zoe who's now 16 was recognized as a top fund-raiser at the 2017 Michael J. Fox MVP Awards dinner in New York City on Friday, April 28. This is the third year Zoe has been recognized by the Michael J. Fox Foundation for her efforts. To date, she has raised more than $92,000, with the goal of reaching $100,000. To donate and support Zoe's campaign, visit www.danceshakedonate.com.
Give thanks and appreciate what you have, just like these 3 special kids did! They're our heroes, who are yours?
This HooplaHa original video was edited by Kellie Sieban. For more inspiring news, follow us on Facebook and sign up for our Only Good News Newsletter.