For more than a decade, Atrium Health’s Young Ambassadors program has celebrated kids and teens who are making an extraordinary impact in the lives of Atrium Health patients through philanthropy. We are especially impressed by this year’s group of Young Ambassadors who were challenged to think outside the box and found new inventive ways to raise funds. From face mask sales, to virtual concerts and Christmas light displays, the 2020 Young Ambassadors have raised nearly $15,000 for Atrium Health patient programs.

Hazel, 7, has raised $2,000 (and counting) to benefit the Neonatal Intensive Care Fund.

The custom face mask features a Hazel Birch original drawing, inspired by her love of unicorns.

For the past three years, Hazel and her family have hosted an annual art show to showcase her talents and raise funds for Levine Children’s. As a former NICU patient, Hazel is passionate about helping newborns and shared, “I hope my art helps sick babies get better faster.” While her art show could not take place this year, Hazel was determined to support Levine Children’s. With the help of her mother, Vanessa, Hazel found a creative way to raise funds and keep her community safe by selling custom face masks. To date, she has sold more than 150 masks, raising $2,000 for Levine Children’s. Hazel has been a Young Ambassador since 2018 and has raised over $3,000 during that time.

 

 

 

 

Coleton, 13, puts on a festive Christmas light display to support Levine Children’s.

Coleton presenting a check to Levine Children’s President Dr. Stacy Nicholson in 2019.

Each year, Coleton creates a beautiful Christmas light display outside his home to bring holiday cheer to his neighbors and support the patients at Levine Children’s Hospital. Coleton creates his design, selects the decorations and hangs the lights all by himself, including a homemade sign which asks for donations to Levine Children’s. Since 2018, Coleton has raised over $1,000 through his creative light display.

 

 

 

 

 

We’d like to recognize our 2020 Young Ambassadors for their contributions this year. Their kindness and generosity will certainly make a lasting impact in our communities:

Kate, Olivia, and Elowen Smith

Coleton Peterson

Hazel Birch

Lily Starnes

Nam Nguyen

Reese and Kinley Dowlin

Abby and Connor Benhardts

Emma Porter

Vanika Mehta

Leah Parker

Sofia Copp

Mallard Creek High School DECA Club

Holy Trinity Middle School

Forest Park Elementary School

Cannon School

Charlotte Catholic High School- Cougars 4 a Cure (Salvino Family)

Bailey Middle School Music Department

 

To become an Atrium Health Young Ambassador, or to refer a child or teen who has demonstrated Young Ambassador qualities, contact Madeline Yih at Madeline.Yih@atriumhealth.org.