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She Baked 96,000 Cookies and Raised $420,000+ to Develop Pediatric Cancer Treatments....Today She's Granted $21 MILLION, with Gretchen Witt, Founder of Cookies for Kids' Cancer
Season 3, Ep. 223
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Diagnosed with stage four cancer at age two and a half years old, Gretchen Witt’s son's condition highlighted the critical need for increased awareness and funding for pediatric cancer. Drawing on her PR expertise, she organized a cookie bake-a-thon fundraiser that laid the foundation for Cookies for Kids' Cancer. The nonprofit she founded has since raised over $21 million, funding critical research and treatment options for pediatric cancer.
Gretchen shares the realities of running a nonprofit, from staying true to its mission to managing the challenges of fundraising and community engagement. She outlines practical ways businesses can support her cause, such as hosting bake sales or customizing cookies for corporate purposes. This demonstrates how for-profit initiatives can effectively contribute to philanthropic efforts.
Throughout the discussion, Gretchen emphasizes the importance of authenticity, a clear mission, and the courage to embrace new challenges despite the fear of failure. Her belief in grassroots involvement highlights her conviction that everyone has the power to make a difference regardless of their resources.
This episode is a reminder of the importance of clarity in both mission and communication, which is essential for anyone looking to make an impact through their work. Gretchen turned her grief into a global campaign against pediatric cancer, proving that from the deepest sorrow can come the greatest strength.
Quotes
- “I know my son inside and out and I know that his expectation of us who were left behind is that if there was something we could do to make it better for somebody else, we should do it. No matter what it is.” (22:12 | Gretchen Witt)
- “You have to be doing something for the right reason and the right purpose. And it has to be something that you believe in.” (24:39 | Gretchen Witt)
- “Starting an organization, whether it's a for-profit or a non-for-profit business, is not for the faint of heart. You better believe in what it is that you are doing without a shadow of a doubt. You have to have an idea of what it is that you're doing, why you're doing it, why it's important and why it's needed.” (24:45 | Gretchen Witt)
Connect with Gretchen Witt:
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/cookies4kids
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