Whiz Kid: Jack Hannah

Name: Jack Hannah

Age: 12

School: Kopachuck Middle School

Accomplishment: Jack created and led a fundraiser for money and goods in response to the . Jack and his mom, Sherine, called upon traditional sources like posters and word of mouth as well as a variety of technological tools like Twitter and a Facebook group they created called “Friends of the Fogdes” to spread the word of their donation event at the Rosedale Market. Jack’s efforts have already collected electronics, boxes of clothing and more than $300 for the family at the first fundraiser. The next Friends of the Fogdes Drive will take place on March 5 at .

Key to Awesomeness: Spending only a few minutes with Jack Hannah helps to fill in the picture of how a 12-year-old can be genuine and thoughtful enough to take on a virtuous giving of this magnitude. From unconsciously picking up trash in the school hallway to the light that crosses his face as he shares his pride in doing “the right thing for a friend,” Jack has a humble awareness of the world around him that seems years beyond his age. 

When asked what his motivation was to start this special campaign, Jack just reflected and said, “If my house burned down, I’d want someone to do it for me.” Even after facing some closed doors in his pursuits to help out the Fogde family, Jack carried on with enthusiasm and purpose to find an avenue to help.   

Jack shared that he was happy to have bonded with the family by showing them how much support the community can offer. He knew he had made an impact when his friend’s mom (Susan Fogde) gave him “a two minute hug” to show her appreciation. When asked to capture his feelings about what he started with the fundraiser and the outpouring from the community, Jack  paused, sheepishly grinned and said quietly, “Happy and . . . kind.”

If you would like to help out the Fogdes, you can stop by any Columbia Bank location and donate to the Susan and Brian Fogde and Family Account. 

If you would like to donate clothing items, they have . Smaller items can be dropped off at the Peninsula Gig Harbor Senior Living at 3445 50th Street Court NW. Larger items should be dropped off at 6508 Wollochet Drive, Building 2A. Please call Brian at 253-549-3615 or Susan at 253-549-3563 to set up an appointment. 

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We want to hear about these amazing children and teens and select one each week as the Patch Whiz Kid. Submit your nomination in our comment box below or e-mail the information to Joy Giovanini or Akiko Oda. Find out