Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University’s Physician Assistant Student Organization raised $2,800 for the Emerge Foundation School Supply Drive.
With COVID-19, the organization had to modify its volunteering plans to include virtual fundraising to raise the money for the center. Physician Assistant student Lauren Fraizer provided the idea and creative design of a virtual Bingo fundraiser.
“When the Emerge Center announced that their annual school supply drive would be virtual due to health concerns, I knew we would have to adapt as well,” explained Frazier. “I had seen bingo board templates used on social media as ways to share traits about yourself, challenge friends and fundraise. I thought that this would be the perfect opportunity to utilize the template to eliminate the need for in-store shopping while also engaging friends and family with the help of social media.”
Frazier said that within the first 24 hours, her social media was full of her friends list posting their nearly completed bingo boards. “I was completely blown away by the generosity of donors and the success of the fundraiser for the Emerge Center. I know that the school supplies purchased through donations will help children with autism build communication, sensory, and motor skills for a better and brighter future.”
FranU Professor Josselin Carter said that PASO chose the Emerge center because of the amazing work they are performing in children with autism. “To have a school dedicated to serve this population when the need is so great in the Baton Rouge area is a milestone. Through early intervention, these children will one day be able to be mainstreamed into a school that requires less assistance.”
Executive Director of the Emerge Foundation Shelton Jones said, “We are deeply grateful for PASO’s generous donation. These funds will help stock classrooms with supplies and support our therapists and teachers in their work with children with autism and other communication challenges.”
FranU's Physician Assistant Student Organization prides itself on fulfilling the Franciscan mission of service. The organization's purpose is to teach students the necessary leadership skills, identify community needs, and experience the joy associated with being a part of something bigger.
Apply
Visit