Teen celebrates sweet 16 fundraising for Kinderhaven
(center in headphones) Alex Guercio with his friends at Sandpoint Cinemas fundraiser night for Kinderhaven.
(Courtesy photo)
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SANDPOINT — Instead of a typical 16th birthday party, Alex Guercio wanted something different.
When Guercio's mom, Amanda, asked him what he wanted to do for the milestone birthday, it wasn’t what she expected. Instead of a party with friends or a special gift, the teen told her that he wanted to do a fundraiser. With help from family friends, the Guercios decided to raise money for Kinderhaven, a group foster home in the community, because one of Alex’s friends stayed there for a bit and because his father had been a foster child.
Guercio partnered with Sandpoint Cinemas, which offered a movie to fund the project. Other businesses and individuals have partnered with Guercio and, as of Thursday, the teen has raised $700.
Dana Bowen, a board member of Kinderhaven and family friend, said that Alex and his group of friends who pushed the fundraiser are always looking to help others.
“They are the future of our small town,” Bowen said.
Jennifer Plummer, Kinderhaven executive director, said she was blown away by Guercio’s willingness to think of others before himself. She said that it is always so touching and heartwarming when the community’s youth wants to reach out and help other youths.
Amanda Guercio was amazed and moved by all those in the community who have supported and continue to back the fundraiser. As a result, she said that it has grown into something bigger than she and Alex ever imagined.
“[Alex] does more for others than himself,” she said.
She said that she has seen the community behind her family as well after the death of Alex’s father last year. To this day, the Guercio family feels the love and the strength of the Sandpoint community.
She wanted to thank all the businesses and individuals who donated and said that she and Alex are looking forward to doing more fundraisers in the future.