Like many brothers their age, 13 year-old Jorge and 11-year-old Joaquin Ribota don’t agree on many things. One thing they do share is a passion and appreciation for the work of Hospice of the Calumet Area. This year, they included their 6 year-old brother Mateo to the mix.
For the past three years, the brothers have been raising money for HCA by running a lemonade stand and their mother’s place of business. This year, the Ribota Brothers faced limitations due to the Covid-19 pandemic that has affected so many from gathering. So they decided to do a lemonade stand/garage sale in their neighborhood with hopes to do what they can for the non-profit.
“I just want my boys to understand that giving back to their community is very important,” said Gina Ribota, mother. “Three years ago, they wanted to do a lemonade stand and we decided to donate the funds to Hospice of the Calumet Area. My friend works for the organization and I’m always impressed with the work they do for patients, families and the community.”
This year, the boys were able to make $100 dollars at the sale, which was tripled by checks sent in by anonymous donors.
“[Hospice of the Calumet Area] helps a lot of people,” said Joaquin Ribota,
11-year-old philanthropist. “We didn’t know anything about hospice until our Mom told us about them and we got to meet them. It’s fun to help others that do good and it’s important too.”
Damian Rico is the director of marketing and community relations for Hospice of the Calumet Area. The opinions are the writer's.