Sixteen years ago, a man named Kit Patrick was introduced to Give Kids The World Village. After learning about the children and families who visit, it didn’t take long for him to fall in love with the mission.

As a manager for a local Walmart Neighborhood Market, Kit challenges his employees to host fundraisers, volunteer, and participate in Village events – like Challenge for Hope, the Village’s signature fun run. He’s managed a number of different stores and at each one he’s been able to get his employees involved with the Village.

“My associates can see they’re doing something good,” said Kit. “And it gives them the chance for team building outside of work. As a manager, it makes me more approachable. When we do fundraisers or events, they get to see I’m not just their manager – I’m a person.”

Kit and his associates host bowling and movie nights, concession stands and more, making sure that the events are fun for everyone involved. Kit even finds ways to help at the store, setting up fundraisers at the registers and collecting spare change outside after his shift.

“Some people make fundraising so complicated. They think there’s so much to it. It’s about making it fun and including little things that get people excited.”

Like selling food, he says. Everybody loves food! And … everyone loves some healthy competition, right? Kit says his staff gets extremely competitive to see who can raise the most money. It brings them out of their shells, giving them motivation and drive – in and outside of work.

Last year, Kit’s Walmart team was the top team fundraiser for Challenge for Hope. This year, he’s hoping to raise even more money.

Want to take on Kit and his team at Challenge for Hope 2019? Get your friends, family or coworkers together and sign up today. It will truly make a difference for the children and families we serve.