JDRF Discoveries Online

When Helen Rapp’s younger brother (Turner) was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes four years ago when he was ten, Helen wanted to do all she could to help raise money to find a cure for her brother and the millions of young people like him. She focused her talent and time on an annual musical fundraiser that – to date – has raised more than $28,000 for diabetes research. Helen is sixteen now and an honor student at John Burroughs School.

This year’s production, called ‘Magic To Do’, will be performed August 22nd & 23rd at Orthwein Theater at MICDS, with a cast and crew of about 35, ages seven to eighteen. The show is an hour-long musical revue.

In addition to the cast, she has volunteers who help out with publicity and logistics. Last year, Helen recruited mother-daughter volunteer partners from National Charity League to run the bake sale and provide volunteers for ushering the performances, which was tremendously successful. The group of about 30 really enjoyed their experience and have volunteered to do it again this year.

Last year about 450 people came to the show. Helen incorporates a bake sale, raffle and silent auction into the performance evenings as well, and the cast sells ads in the program. Admission is free, but donations to JDRF are encouraged, welcomed and appreciated. Also important to note is that 100% of the proceeds go to JDRF – all services are donated.

If you have any questions, contact Emily, at 314-640-8324 or via email.