New Florida Charity Helps People with Tourette Syndrome
WELLINGTON, Fla., Sept. 2, 2015 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Kenny's Dream Foundation, Inc. (KDF), a non-profit organization formed in 2014 to help those affected by Tourette Syndrome (TS), announced today their 2015 scholarship and summer camp recipients. Tyler Pigott from Springfield, LA and Michael Karchner from Collegeville, PA each received a $1,500 scholarship to their respective colleges.
Tyler was 11 years old when he was diagnosed with TS and on his application the three words he used to describe himself were – athletic, humble and optimistic. He says that living with TS was not a curse but a blessing. It has given him a sense of pride for what he has overcome and playing baseball is a big part of his life. "Tyler's application completely moved me by his positive outlook on life and what he can and will accomplish. We were so happy to be able to help him achieve his goals." says Dawn Sgarlata, Founder and President of KDF.
Michael was 10 years old when he was diagnosed with TS and found solace in music. He has played the trumpet for 9 years and was an avid member of the band program, French club, academic team and school newspaper.
"Both Tyler and Michael had to overcome many challenges growing up with TS and they are both very deserving of these scholarships." says Dawn Sgarlata.
KDF sponsored two kids to Camp Twitch and Shout this year. One was done directly through the camp and the other one was awarded to Emilie who is 9 years old from CT. Emilie wrote a short essay on her experience at camp. Here are a few excerpts from her essay – "It was the best thing to ever happen to me! I was really happy to be with other people that understand all that I go through. They all understood how hard it is for me to be at school and get bullied every day. I felt more like I belonged here."
"I had the privilege to meet Emilie and her mom when I visited Camp Twitch and Shout in July. The one word I would use to describe Emilie is joy. She is such a happy child and was so sweet and thankful that she was able to go to camp this year." says Dawn Sgarlata.
To raise funds for next year, KDF is hosting a Fundraiser Dinner/Dance on November 6, 2015 in Lantana, FL. Information can be found on their website www.kennysdreamfoundation.org or their Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/kennysdreamfoundation. Tickets are still available.
Kenny's Dream Foundation, Inc. was formed in memory of Kenny Boyajian and is a 501c3 non-profit organization whose mission is to help those affected by Tourette Syndrome, by providing scholarships and camp tuition to children and adults with TS, while promoting awareness and acceptance.
EIN# 46-4645943
SOURCE Kenny’s Dream Foundation, Inc. (KDF)
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