HUNTINGTON, NY – March 4, 2026
Two sophomores at Huntington High School are taking on a big challenge in hopes of making an even bigger impact.
Fifteen-year-olds Violet Palacios and Ava Bencivenga are leading a fundraising campaign aiming to raise $100,000 for families affected by blood cancers through the Student Visionaries of the Year program run by Blood Cancer United.
The seven-week fundraising campaign brings together student teams from across Long Island to raise money for patient support services. The effort runs from January 26 through March 19, when the team that raises the most funds will be named Student Visionaries of the Year.
Palacios said the inspiration to get involved came from her upbringing.
“My parents have always taught me the importance of giving back and helping people in need,” she said. “When I heard about this program, I knew it was something I wanted to be part of.”
For Bencivenga, the cause is also personal. Her father serves on the board of Blood Cancer United, and her grandmother – who battled cancer for 10 years, passing away in 2021 – had long supported the organization’s fundraising efforts.
“My family has always been involved in helping others,” Bencivenga said. “I want to continue that tradition and help families who are going through something incredibly difficult.”
Both students balance the campaign with busy school and athletic schedules. Violet plays tennis and lacrosse, while Ava participates in field hockey, basketball, and lacrosse.
Their fundraising team, called All Stars United, includes about 25 volunteers from across Long Island, ranging from high school students to adults and younger helpers.
“We’ve been really inspired by how many people have stepped up,” Bencevanga said. “Some of our friends who don’t have big fundraising networks have worked so hard by sending letters to grandparents, neighbors, and friends. They’ve become some of the biggest contributors on our team.”
The group is raising money through social media outreach, fundraising letters, and sponsorships from local businesses. To boost their fundraising total, the team is hosting a large community event Friday, March 6, 2026 at the American Legion, 1 Mill Dam Road, Huntington, NY from 7:00PM – 10:00PM. The family-friendly gathering will feature food, raffles, entertainment, photo booths, and activities for all ages. Tickets can be purchased online or at the door.
Funds raised through the campaign help Blood Cancer United fund research, advocacy and provide direct support to patients and families dealing with blood cancer diagnoses. The organization assists with housing near treatment centers, travel costs, and everyday living expenses so patients can access specialized medical care.
Bencivenga said helping families the team’s selected pillar and biggest motivation.
“Research and new treatments are incredibly important,” she said. “But people who are sick today need help right now. We want to make sure they have the support they need.”
A Huntington family receiving assistance to secure an apartment near New York City hospitals so the patient could receive specialized treatment, while ensuring the family’s daily expenses were covered and their children’s routines remained stable.
The campaign concludes March 19, when teams from across Long Island will gather for a final event announcing the fundraising results.
Until then, Violet Palacios and Ava Bencivenga remain focused on reaching their ambitious goal and encouraging others to support the cause.
“Anyone our age can make a difference,” Palacios said. “If you care about something, you can take action.”
Community members who cannot attend the upcoming event can still support the team by donating through their fundraising page. Every contribution, the students say, helps move them closer to their goal – and supports families facing one of life’s toughest challenges.
Photography by Dana E. Richter, Videography by June Margolin.
