Community
Joliet, IL Students Raise $4,350 to Help Families Battling Cancer
JOLIET, IL — A longtime volleyball tradition brought students, families and staff together in Joliet this October, raising $4,350 to support local families affected by cancer through a special cross t
By Claire Benton · 2026-10-20T19:54:10.976Z
JOLIET, IL — A longtime volleyball tradition brought students, families and staff together in Joliet this October, raising $4,350 to support local families affected by cancer through a special cross town high school fundraiser.
According to Joliet Township High School, the Oct. 13 Pink Heals JT Volleyball Fundraiser generated $4,350 for the Joliet Area Pink Heals Chapter, a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping individuals and families facing cancer.
The event took place at Joliet Central High School and featured competition between Joliet Central and Joliet West volleyball teams.
Joliet Central and West Unite for a Cause The fundraiser included freshman, junior varsity and varsity volleyball games, bringing together students and supporters from both schools.
Beyond the competition, attendees participated in a Survivor Walk honoring those affected by cancer.
Basket raffles, a 50/50 raffle and event shirt sales also contributed to the fundraising total.
The Pink Heals event has been part of the Joliet Township volleyball programs since 2008, making it a meaningful annual tradition for students, coaches and families.
“Our students, families and staff showed up in a big way for this game,” said Kevin Fitzgerald, director of athletics and activities at Joliet Central High School.
“It was a fun night of volleyball, but it was about so much more than the score.”
Funds Support Local Cancer Assistance The $4,350 raised will benefit the Pink Heals Joliet Area Chapter, a registered nonprofit that raises awareness and provides financial support to families and organizations assisting people battling cancer.
Fitzgerald said the event demonstrated how the community can make a difference beyond the volleyball court.
“We are proud that our community came together to make a real difference for families who need support,” he said.
The fundraiser continues a tradition of community involvement and cancer awareness that has connected Joliet's two high schools for nearly two decades.