In many ways, 6-year-old Owen Melancon of Livonia, Michigan is like most other kids his age, spending shelter-in-place days riding bikes and playing in the backyard. But he is also finding ways to raise money so he can help doctors fight coronavirus.
He is doing this by raiding his piggy bank, scouring for loose change and doing household chores to make a few extra dollars. He successfully collected $23, which he used to make a gift to The Children's Foundation.
Too early in life, Owen learned the harsh realities of death, grief and loss when he lost his best friend to a lengthy battle with cancer in 2019. A perceptive boy, Owen understands all that is currently going on in the world and is stepping up, in his words, "to stop people from dying."
The Melancon family chose The Children's Foundation because of its support of families in their area, in addition to its support of Children's Hospital of Michigan, where Owen's late friend received care.
"He's had a tough year," says his mother, Laura Melancon. "I'm glad he is learning kindness through it all."
Doug Ferrick, the Foundation's Chief Development Officer, thinks Owen is a true philanthropist. "Like so many of our supporters, he is drawing on his personal experiences to drive him to help others."
The 6-year-old is not looking for praise. He simply has a big heart, giving spirit and a strong desire to keep the memory of his best friend alive. Next on Owen's list is to participate in St. Baldrick's Brave The Shave virtual event, which he hopes will happen soon.
Doug adds, "He inspires all of us to want to dig just a little deeper and do a little more."
Every gift, no matter the size, makes a difference for the children and families we serve. Contact George Westerman at (313) 745-9344 or GWesterman@YourChildrensFoundation.org to learn more about flexible ways you can maximize your giving through your estate plan.