Retired RRGSD educator, Donna Hardy, stopped by Roanoke Rapids Early College High School on Tuesday to speak with students in Ms. Faloretti’s Scholar Seminar Class. She was there to share information about Hope for Hardy, which originally began as a way for friends and family to raise money to cover the cost of a liver transplant for Hardy’s husband, Doug. Sadly, Doug passed away in 2013, before he was able to receive the transplant, but the organization stepped in during a time of need for the Hardy family to cover medical and other expenses.
Since 2013, Hope for Hardy has morphed into a 501c3 non profit that promotes organ donation and helps people in need who are waiting for or have received a transplant. To date, Hardy estimates that the organization has helped 50-60 people and has raised over $50,000. Mrs. Hardy encouraged the students to live a life of service, stating, “Hope for Hardy is all about helping other people. I believe we’re here to serve others. Whatever path you take, step back and put others before yourself and life will be better for you.” This message is taken to heart at the Early College, where students are required to get service hours each semester as part of their seminar class.
One of the main events of the year for Hope for Hardy is the Twilight Festival. The festival is in its 5th year and Hardy shared that this year will be the biggest one yet. They will have food trucks, vendors, live painting by Riley Mills, a classic car show, ping pong ball raffle drop, and free entertainment from the Feature Attraction Band. All are welcome to attend on Friday, September 22, 2023 at 5 pm on Roanoke Avenue.