Kids for a Cure

Madison Lewandowski is a gifted artist, jeweler, model, and entrepreneur who has accomplished more in her life than many will ever accomplish. As well as being successful in business, she has given back in countless ways. And did we mention she is only eight years old?

Madison’s first move came in 2006 after hearing of Hurricane Katrina. She began creating pieces of art to sell to her family and friends, and the money she earned went straight to the Red Cross. She also decided that starting this year, 10 percent of all proceeds from her company, Maddie’s Monkey Business, will go to a charity or nonprofit organization.

A few months ago, Madison began producing more artwork in order to make money for kids with cancer. However, the $20 or so she saved would not suffice for what she wanted to give. As her father, Leon Lewandowski, explained, “After being in her room for a while, she emerged with an armload of books, games, stuffed animals, and toys.” She told him, “I want these to go to cancer.” Shortly after, the idea for a rummage sale, to be called Kids for a Cure, came into being.

Because of Madison’s vision, the rummage sale has grown into a full-blown event, including live music from the Newcats (a group of 8- to 15-year-olds), storytelling from Michael Katz, food from SurfDog, face-painting, balloon art, and a craft table where people can make origami cranes for those who are sick. There will be a raffle and silent auction. Since all aspects of Kids for a Cure are donated, every penny is going straight to research for a cure for pediatric cancer.

“It helps kids with cancer,” said Madison. “But also, kids sometimes don’t think that they can help big things like cancer, but I want to show them, and the adults, that we really can.”