Dec. 15, 2010
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Editor’s Note: The following first appeared in the University of Iowa’s Hawk Talk Daily, an e-newsletter that offers a daily look at the Iowa Hawkeyes, delivered free each morning to thousands of fans of the Hawkeyes worldwide.
IOWA CITY, Iowa – After an injury plagued volleyball season, University of Iowa sophomore Jordanne LeTourneau is no stranger to setbacks. But instead of dwelling on a season lost in the training room, she’s thankful she was given an opportunity in the first place, and now she wants to help give others a chance.
Working in collaboration with Compassion International, LeTourneau founded the Baby Steps Donation Fund, an organization created to raise money for the Child Survival Program within Compassion International. The first fundraising event is Jan. 22, 2011, at the Paul W. Brechler Press Box at historic Kinnick Stadium. Proceeds from the event will help feed starving children all around the world and provide financial compensation for expecting mothers to go through safe labor by paying for all complications or procedures.
“I’ve been working with Compassion International for quite a while and I think they are an excellent organization,” said LeTourneau. “Last year I was at the hospital dealing with my own health issues when I decided I wanted to do a fundraiser on my own. The idea has really formulated since then and I’m excited we’re about to host the first event.”
Tickets for the inaugural event can be purchased in advance for $20 by contacting LeTourneau at jordanne-letourneau@uiowa.edu or by phone at (815) 560-2148. Tickets will also be sold the day of the event for $25. Checks should be made payable to: Baby Steps Donation Fund.
“I’m calling it the inaugural event because I would like to make this an annual event. I’ve had great support from a lot of people so I’m hoping for a great turnout.”
LeTourneau has been assisted by her cohort, Jessica Kozlowski, and is receiving on-campus support from fraternities and sororities, as well as a number of UI athletic teams and coaches. The family friendly event will include a catered dinner and a formal reception that includes give-aways, a guest DJ, drinks and dancing. A limo ride will also offer guests a ride to The Airliner for a post-event party.
“The entire evening will be family friendly with all sorts of fun activities,” explained LeTourneau. “This event is geared towards all ages. Music will be appropriate and it will be an opportunity for families and fans of the Hawkeyes to get a chance to interact with the students here at the University of Iowa and become part of something that is remarkable.”
LeTourneau is also hopeful a successful event leads to many more philanthropic opportunities.
“I’m looking into starting my own non-profit organization,” said the 19-year old marketing major. “Compassion International is a great non-profit organization. I’m happy I’m able to collaborate with them and, yes, someday I’d like to start my own non-profit, but right now we encourage your support of this event as much as possible because every bit counts and each baby step we take can change a baby’s life.”
The Jan. 22 event starts at 7 p.m. For more information or to purchase advance tickets contact Jordanne LeTourneau.