Fort Wayne Community Schools will celebrate Riley Champion Dane Farlee, a student at Jefferson Middle School, and kickoff its annual fundraiser for Riley Hospital for Children at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 2, at Jefferson Middle School, 5303 Wheelock Road.

Dane was named a Riley Champion for his continued commitment to Riley after treatment at the hospital as a baby. Dane was born with critical aortic stenosis – a narrowing of the aorta that required multiple open heart surgeries. Over the years, Dane has participated in the Indiana University Dance Marathon, a fundraiser for the Riley Children’s Foundation, nine times. As a Riley Champion, he will continue being an ambassador for Riley throughout the year.

In celebrating Dane’s accomplishments, FWCS will also kick off its ninth annual fundraiser for the Riley Kids Caring & Sharing program. Last year, FWCS students and staff raised $33,753.32 for the Riley Children’s Foundation, making the district a Riley Corporation ($1 raised for every student in the district). FWCS will again work to become a Miracle Corporation, which means raising $1 for every student with participation from every school building.

Come to the press conference to hear more about Dane and learn more about the fundraiser and the strong connection between Riley Hospital and Fort Wayne.

What: Riley Champion celebration and “Miracle Corporation” fundraiser kickoff

When: 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 2

Where: Jefferson Middle School, 5303 Wheelock Road