Nikki Romaglia, former Fundraising Chair for Axis
Tell us about your organization:
Axis is a special interest THON organization that raises money to help find a cure for pediatric cancer. We spend a lot of time with our THON family, the Calvanelli’s, and hope to make an impact on them and the entire THON community. We visit our family on family members’ birthdays, take them bowling, go to different community events with them, and even go to the farm with them. We try to visit around twice a semester because it’s really special seeing how the money we raise directly impacts families and THON children.
Why do you think your organization is important and meaningful on campus?
I think THON itself is extremely important and meaningful, and THON wouldn’t be able to thrive without the smaller orgs. In a way, we make up the backbone of THON. Even though we are a small org, we have a huge impact. It means a lot to us and it makes us happy knowing we made a difference, no matter how big or small.
How did you decide to take on your role as Fundraising Chair?
I’ve been involved in Axis since freshman year, and it was during my first few months that I knew I wanted a bigger part in the org. I applied as a freshman, to be a sophomore chair. I wanted to make decisions so our org can be its best.
During my time as Fundraising Chair, I brainstormed fundraisers and set up and organized creative ways to raise money. THON has changed a lot since the canning days, so it’s a hard position that requires a lot of creativity to come up with new solutions on how to fundraise.
My freshman year, I did both a THON committee and club. After my first THON, I found that I would rather be in the stands with my org. I like the aspect of having a specific group of people to fundraise for, and I feel like THON is a lot more special knowing you helped your small org raise money for a big cause.
How does your work with Axis give you the opportunity to use your gifts and passions?
I like to help people and making a positive impact is really important to me. THON is such a face-to-face event that allows you to actually see the people you’re helping. You can see the tangible effects of your efforts, and when that happens, it solidifies the fact that we are making a difference. In Axis, I’m able to make that impact and help those people who need it the most.
Why do you think your organization makes a difference in this world?
Aside from affecting THON and 4 Diamond families, it’s just bringing more awareness to the issue of childhood cancer in general. Penn State is filled with a lot of people from all around the country, and even if those kids don’t know about Hershey Medical Center, they’ll learn more about the needs of cancer awareness and funding. Even just spreading the word is enough to make a difference in this world.
Anything to say for students who might want to join this club?
Go for it! Test out what makes the most sense for you regarding THON. Maybe try a committee, maybe try a THON org – whatever works best for you. Go to different meetings and find your place. There’s so many different ways and reasons to get involved, so don’t hesitate to start making an impact.
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