Delbarton sophomore Dylan Kloster '28 recently spearheaded a unique fundraising idea for The Valerie Fund, raising an impressive $41,152 to support children with cancer and blood disorders.

The fundraiser, Dogs of Delbarton, invited participants to sign up their dogs while friends, family, and community members voted for their favorites by donating. The creativity and charm of the contest captured the attention of the Delbarton community, resulting in a record-breaking outpouring of support.

“The desire to help children going through unimaginable challenges is what really motivated me to launch this fundraiser,” Dylan said. “I thought by incorporating dogs, it would be a unique way to capture the attention of family and friends and to make this fundraiser even more powerful.”

Dylan’s motivation for supporting The Valerie Fund began with a conversation about finance with a family friend who works at Morgan Stanley. He learned that the friend serves as Project Manager for the Valerie Fund, an organization dedicated to supporting children facing cancer and rare blood disorders. Dylan knew immediately that this was the perfect cause for the Delbarton community to rally behind.

Reflecting on the fundraiser’s success, Dylan said, “Looking back, I had such high hopes for the impact we could make before the fundraiser began. Even with those goals, I am amazed at how the community came together with such strength and compassion. I look forward to next year and beating this year’s achievement, which means we may be opening it up to the Pets of Delbarton.”

Thanks to Dylan’s initiative and the generosity of the Delbarton community, The Valerie Fund will receive a substantial contribution to continue its vital work supporting children in need. The Delbarton Community salutes Dylan and his fundraising efforts!