In 2007, 2-year-old Liam Witt was diagnosed with pediatric cancer. For his parents, Gretchen and Larry Witt, the diagnosis brought a devastating reality into focus: childhood cancer research was severely underfunded.
Both Gretchen and Larry were employees at OXO, and they knew they wanted to do something to help. They rallied 250 volunteers, many of them fellow OXOnians, and set out to raise money for pediatric cancer research the best way they knew how — by baking.
Together, they baked an incredible 96,000 cookies, raising critical funds to support research focused on developing new, improved and less toxic treatments for children with cancer.
After Liam passed away, OXO made a commitment to carry his legacy forward. The company became a long-term partner of Cookies for Kids’ Cancer, the nonprofit Gretchen and Larry founded in Liam’s honor. Since 2011, OXO has pledged to match up to $100,000 in funds raised each year while helping bring communities across the country together to support pediatric cancer research. Now, from Oct 1-Dec 31, you can join them and “Bake A Difference.”
So What Do I Need To Do?
It’s easy!
- Register here. You’ll find everything you need to know about the program, along with instructions for getting your bake sale started on this page.
- Get your bake sale kit. We have a limited number of boxes available for FREE, so be sure to register your bake sale early. Select the “Bake Sale in a Box” option during registration, and your cookies will be delivered straight to your door.
- Plan your bake sale. Choose a location where lots of people will see your table, such as a school, park or community event. Then, lock in your date and time and start building your baking crew.
That’s it! OXO will automatically match all the funds you raise from your bake sale up to $100,000, doubling your hard work and impact.
Anything Else I Should Know?
Our team is here to support you every step of the way! From registering your bake sale to planning your event and reaching your fundraising goals, we’re here to answer questions, share resources and help make your Bake A Difference experience a success. And who better to share advice than longtime bake sale hosts? We’ve gathered some of their tried-and-true tips to help you plan, prepare and make the most of your bake sale:
- Ask Bakeries to Donate Cookies: Many businesses are eager to support meaningful causes, and a donated batch of treats can help you expand your selection while bringing another member of your community into your fundraiser.
- Create Eye-Catching Signage: Make your bake sale impossible to miss! Posters, chalkboards, table toppers and banners can help draw people to your table and explain why you’re fundraising.
- Promote Your Bake Sale on Social Media: A little promotion can go a long way. Share your bake sale with friends, family and neighbors through your personal social media accounts and community groups.
- Clearly label your treats, especially when they contain common allergens such as nuts, dairy or gluten. Consider offering a variety of baked goods, including allergy-friendly treats. Need labels or other baking supplies? Visit our Amazon Storefront for easy-to-use labels and more.
I’m ready!
Let’s do it! Head to our Bake A Difference page to register your bake sale now, and reach out to linda@beagoodcookie.org if you have any questions.
Thank you for baking, fundraising and bringing your community together to make a difference for kids with cancer. Every cookie helps!
