A Local Surprise Makes a Big Difference for a Teacher

Receiving a life-changing surprise when you least expect it. That's exactly what Julie Drew, a fifth-grade teacher at Kruse Educational Center in Orland Park, experienced. Dowling Legacy and Retirement, a local retirement planning company, teamed up with the Gradient Giving Foundation to make a significant difference in her life. They had heard about Julie's courageous battle with ovarian cancer and the financial struggles that came with it. Julie's story touched their hearts. As a single mother of two, she had previously fought and won against Stage 3 ovarian cancer. However, she faced new challenges after moving into a townhouse with her family. The mortgage payments were tough to handle. The company decided to step in and help.During what was billed as a student choir concert, the company surprised Julie with a year's worth of mortgage payments—a total of $26, 400. It didn't stop there. They also provided her family with new backpacks and gift cards, and planned a schoolwide pizza party to clear all negative lunch balances. Julie was overwhelmed and grateful. She chose to keep teaching despite her health issues, finding strength in her students. "These kids help me daily with everything—when I was feeling sick or whatever the case may be, " she said. "I just am very grateful. " The company also gifted her entire class backpacks filled with candy. This gesture showed that community support can make a significant difference in the lives of those in need.