'I’m A Star' youths collects $35,000 in summer fundraiser

Teens in the I’m A Star Foundation presented a check for $35,000 to Duval County Public Schools today, benefitting the 2700 homeless students in their school system.  This marks a milestone for the Teens as the non-profit organization approach the $100,000 mark with a total of $96,500 raised in their Jacksonville HELPS (Homeless Students Empowered through Leadership, Partnership & Service) effort since 2013.  All funds have been donated to the Duval County Public Schools’ Homeless Education Department.  A portion of that amount was awarded through 14 scholarships to homeless students entering college.

The teens spoke before the recent school board meeting, thanking the community before delivering the funds.  “The community stepped up in a big way,” remarked 16-year-old Jacksonville HELPS Co-Chair Joshua Brown.

The teen servant leaders kicked off the 2017 fundraiser in July, collecting funds through a Celebrity Basketball game, GoFundMe campaign and private donations. I’m A Star Foundation donated all money to the district as unrestricted funds, which will provide resources for students in the DCPS “Families in Transition” program.  The $35,000 will cover needs such as eye glasses, books, toiletry items, bus passes, doctor's fees, hotel vouchers, rental deposits, college application fees and more.

This year’s Celebrity Basketball game caught the attention of USA Olympic Gold Medalist Simone Biles, who sent a video congratulating 'I'm A Star' teens. View segments of the game and Simone’s well wishes HERE.