ABOUT US
Caleb Cares 4 Kids is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, founded in 2015 that provides gifts and financial support to pediatric hospital patients and their families. However, the work of CC4K began back in 2012, when then 8 year-old Caleb decided that he wanted to "do something special for someone" for Christmas. Thus began his annual Christmas toy drive. The idea to donate toys to Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus, Ohio came to Caleb from his memory of his stay there when he was almost 3 years old. At that time, he had been diagnosed with Kawasaki Disease, an autoimmune disorder with various symptoms that when not treated in a timely manner, can cause irreversible heart damage. Thankfully, this was not the case for Caleb, and he remains completely healthy today.
Caleb doesn't recall too much about his hospital stay, aside from the toy cart that navigated the halls, from which patients were allowed to choose a toy to keep them occupied during their stay, and take with them upon their return home.
Because of that one gesture, CC4K began. In 2013 while watching the Children's Miracle Network Telethon, Caleb made the decision to find a way to donate to that cause in addition to donating toys. So, at least 50% of the money raised goes to CMN.
Since 2012, Caleb Cares 4 Kids has provided approximately 5,ooo toys to hospitalized children and contributed nearly $20,000 to the Children's Miracle Network, including $4,000 that was presented during Sunny 95's most recent Radiothon. This is only possible thanks to donations from many generous individuals and local businesses.
Caleb has received recognition for his charitable work. In 2015, he was honored as Muskingum County's American Red Cross Hometown Youth Hero, and was also awarded 104.9 The River radio's Extra Mile winner.
OUR FOUNDER
In addition to running his own business, Caleb will be entering his second year of college Heidelberg University this fall. He is involved on campus, participating in choir, working as a student photographer for the Marketing Department, and serving as yearbook editor.