SUMMERSIDE, P.E.I. - Jennifer Murphy of the Esther Finkle Fund for Kids invites Islanders to reflect on a small dream they had as a child, and the impact it had on their lives once their wish was fulfilled.
Murphy, who will participate in the 19th annual Esther Finkle Walk for kids, says many people have a special dream in mind when they donate to the cause. She often thinks about the dream she had granted by the Esther Finkle Fund: rink fries.
“That was one of the first times I realized what a difference $200 can make. If you stop and reflect on your magical experiences as a child, one of mine was the first time I had rink fries. I had forgotten what that was like for me until this request arrived,” she chimed.
The Esther Finkle Fund grants up to $200 to fulfill a child’s small dreams. This may include helping them join a sports team with their friends by paying the registration fee or encouraging creative expression by purchasing new art supplies.
Murphy remembers one request for a child who received support through Jumpstart to play hockey and a request came to the Esther Finkle Fund asking for money to buy him rink fries, so he could enjoy them with his friends after games.
She noted her motivation to walk is partly to honour the memory of her friend and co-worker.
“Part of me still walks to honour Esther,” she said. “But I have received so much more, so many beautiful life lessons over the years, being a part of this small but very important fund.”
The Esther Finkle Walk for Kids was founded in 2000 in honour and memory of a woman who believed in the children she worked with and made their small dreams her mission.
Finkle believed that kids who experienced so many challenges, and whose families were financially limited, should have the opportunity to find joy in the small luxuries that many take for granted.
The Esther Finkle Walk for Kids strives to generate joy and smiles in children by helping them realize a wish or a dream.
This year’s walk is scheduled for Sunday, October 21. The walk will kick off at the Miscouche Fire Hall at 2 p.m. Participants are invited to stay once the walk wraps up for door prizes and snacks.
For more information visit, www.estherfinklefund.com.
