02-12-24
Louise San Nicola
In a heartwarming display of compassion and initiative, ten-year-old Victoria Reese, a fifth-grader from Millstone Township, has embarked on a mission to make a difference in the lives of special needs children. Armed with creativity, determination and a generous spirit, Victoria has taken it upon herself to raise funds to send these children to a summer camp run by the NJ Elks, where they can enjoy enriching experiences and create cherished memories.
The cost of sending a single child to the Elks Camp Moore in Haskell NJ is $200, a sum that can pose a significant financial challenge for many families. Moved by the desire to ensure that every child, regardless of their circumstances, has the opportunity to participate in this transformative experience, Victoria decided to take action.
Initially setting out with the modest goal of sending just one child to camp, Victoria began her endeavor by crafting and selling bracelets. With each bead carefully strung and every knot tied, Victoria poured her heart into creating beautiful and unique bracelets to sell to friends, family, and members of her community.
What started as a humble effort quickly gained momentum as word spread about Victoria’s mission. People were not only drawn to the colorful bracelets adorning her wrists but were also inspired by her selfless determination to make a difference. As donations poured in and her custom bracelets were selling with ease, Victoria’s initial goal was soon surpassed.
With her unwavering commitment and the support of her community, Victoria found herself on the brink of a remarkable achievement. Victoria reached a monumental milestone of raising $1000 which would have enabled her to send five children to this sleep away camp!
After learning that the NJ Elks had successfully raised an impressive $2 million to cover the expenses for all the children to attend this special needs camp, Victoria swiftly adjusted her fundraising initiative. Instead of paying the cost to send the children directly to the camp, she decided to allocate the funds differently. Victoria shifted her focus to providing $100 to 10 families to assist them in purchasing the necessary supplies for their children’s participation in the sleep-away camp.
Victoria’s journey serves as a powerful reminder of the impact that one individual, regardless of age, can have on the world around them. Through her dedication and compassion, she has not only exceeded her own expectations but has also inspired others to join her in her mission of spreading kindness and making a difference in the lives of those in need.
As members of the Freehold Elks #1454, the Reese family embodies the spirit of giving back to those in need. Their involvement in both the Elks and the broader community reflects their dedication to making a positive impact in the lives of others. Through their collective efforts, the Reese family continues to uphold the principles of service and generosity that define the Freehold Elks and inspire others to follow their example.
Victoria’s parents, Christine and Joe Reese, have been residents of Millstone for the past 13 years and have been proud members of the Freehold Elks. Joe, a dedicated member of the motorcycle club and a former Exalted Ruler of the Freehold Elks, has long been involved in various philanthropic endeavors. Meanwhile, Christine, equally committed to service, has served on the Millstone Township Board of Education for the past six years and has been an active participant in community initiatives. Victoria’s adult twin sisters have also supported the community as they grew up as well. Seems like this is the Reese family way!
Victoria has been immersed in the culture of the Freehold Elks since she was a baby, often accompanying her parents to lodge events and charitable activities. From a young age, Victoria has absorbed the values of compassion and community service that are central to the Elks organization.
Victoria is a dynamic young girl with a diverse range of interests and talents. From sports to arts and academics, she thrives in various pursuits, embodying a well-rounded and vibrant personality.
An avid sports enthusiast, Victoria enjoys playing basketball and watching baseball. Whether she’s shooting hoops on the court or cheering on her favorite baseball team from the stands, Victoria’s love for sports is evident in her enthusiasm and dedication.
In addition to her athletic pursuits, Victoria has a creative side that shines through her passion for arts and crafts. She loves to express herself through various artistic mediums, from making wreaths to engaging in arts and crafts projects. Her creativity knows no bounds and she takes pride in her ability to bring her ideas to life through her artistic endeavors.
Victoria is also a Girl Scout as she embodies the principles of leadership, service, and community involvement. Through her participation in scouting activities, Victoria learns valuable skills and values that empower her to contribute even more positively to society.
Academically, Victoria excels in school where she is known for her love of reading and writing. Victoria’s commitment to her school community is further demonstrated through her membership in the Millstone Elementary Spirit Club and the Hawaii Helpers Club raising funds to support the Maui Food Bank addressing food insecurities in the area. As an active participant in school events and initiatives, Victoria embodies school spirit and camaraderie, contributing to a positive and inclusive school culture.
Victoria’s dedication to serving others and making a difference in her community will be celebrated at the upcoming Charity in Bloom Gala on February 17. As she is honored for her outstanding contributions and compassionate spirit, Victoria’s impact on those around her serves as an inspiration to all who have the pleasure of knowing her.
Jessica Schoener, the Chairperson of the Elks Special Children’s Committee, has had the pleasure of knowing Victoria for the past seven years, as long as Jessica has been a member of the Freehold Elks. Jessica has watched Victoria grow and mature into a compassionate and driven individual. Jessica is incredibly proud of Victoria’s unwavering commitment to her fundraising efforts and the positive impact she has made on the community.
Jessica described how Victoria’s family plays a crucial role in supporting her philanthropic endeavors. They generously donate the beads and materials she needs to create her beautiful bracelets. This total donation highlights the Reese family’s dedication to giving back to those in need.
Setting up her table with an array of colorful bracelets, Victoria takes on the role of a confident entrepreneur, selling her creations with enthusiasm and passion. Jessica admires Victoria’s initiative and determination, noting that she is her “number one helper” in fundraising endeavors.
Victoria’s proud mother echoes Jessica’s sentiments, expressing her immense pride in her daughter’s selfless nature. Christine emphasizes Victoria’s innate kindness and her tendency to prioritize the needs of others above her own. Through her charitable work, Victoria exemplifies the values of generosity and empathy instilled in her by her loving family.
In a time when acts of kindness and generosity are more important than ever, Victoria’s story serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration, reminding us all of the power of compassion and the difference that one person can make in the lives of others.