MOA: What are Mending Kid’s main objectives?
To provide surgical care for children worldwide, including the United States and to leave a legacy of surgical and recovery training for long-term sustainable programs where needed.
MOA: How do you go about fundraising?
Primarily, we fundraise through events. Our concerts, golf tournaments and galas provide the largest percentage of our annual budget. However, they do not bring in enough to cover the whole cash budget of $1.5 million, and can be unpredictable. We are looking for more people to join as monthly or annual donors who can help us make sure children receive the surgical care they need, and their doctors receive the training they need.
MOA: Does it help to have celebrity endorsements?
We are indebted to the celebrities who lend their hand to support Mending Kids. We have been incredibly fortunate to have built these friendships over a long period. Our celebrity partners want to work with our donors and the public to support the work of Mending Kids. They encourage people to donate too, and to support Mending Kids like they do.
MOA: How can people get involved in raising awareness and money for your charity?
We encourage people to start fundraising campaigns to raise money for specific children on our wait list who need surgery. These kids need help and typically their surgeries are not expensive. A small handful of people making donations can make a real difference.
Gene Simmons and family with Marchelle attend Mending Kids International's Wings Around The World African Safari Gala