Junior Civitans and Civitans share a lot more in common than their love for service – one of those being the Civitan International Research Center (CIRC). Continuing the tradition of Sno-Do, governors raised funds to support life-changing research at the CIRC. North Carolina Ditrict East governor, Ashton Gupton, got creative with her fundraising to raise over $14,000 and secure her spot as this year’s top fundraiser.
Since joining Junior Civitan as a seventh grader, Gupton describes her experiences with the club as nothing short of rewarding. “Not only have I given back to the community but I have also met people who have become some of my best friends and want to make the world a better place.”
One of her most fond memories dates back to her first event as a Junior Civitan working with Special Olympics. “At the opening ceremonies, I had the privilege to meet some of the athletes which was an experience I will never forgot,” recalls Gupton.
Gupton utilized some tried and true fundraising strategies to help her reach her goal, like writing personalized letters to family and friends. Additionally, Gupton hosted several small fundraising events to help garner gifts and spread awareness about the CIRC. Some included a Bingo night for adult Civitan clubs, a barbeque at her grandmother’s house for family and friends, a fundraiser night at a local restaurant, and even a potato bake at her church.
Now a junior in high school, Gupton is a member of the Johnston County Junior Civitan Club (JOCO Junior Civitan Club). As she enters her final years of high school, Gupton looks forward to attending college in either North Carolina, Virginia, or Georgia to become a pediatric physician assistant.
Her desire to one day work in the health field gives her a natural connection to supporting the Civitan International Research Center.