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 Seven−year−old Rachel Drogs proves even spare change saved in a piggy bank can have an impact
Donating half of your entire life’s savings is a rare gesture even in circles of seasoned philanthropists. But that is exactly what Rachel Drogs did on June 9, 2007. Rachel explains how she had heard about the University of Michigan’s new children’s and women’s hospital project and was excited about the idea of being able to contribute. After consulting with the financial specialists in her family, she decided to give half of all her money to the project. It is an inspiring story—especially when you consider that Rachel is all of 7 years old.
Rachel’s parents, Scott and Stacey Drogs, share a special connection with the University of Michigan, with some of their most formative life experiences having happened here. This is where they met, fell in love and got married. Rachel was born at U−M Women’s Hospital and spent a week in the Holden Neonatal Intensive Care Unit as a newborn. "We’ve always wanted to pass our passion for U−M down to Rachel. But it’s also very important to us that Rachel finds her own passion and is able to do something around that," says Stacey.
 Rachel and her dad, Scott, brought her Michigan piggy banks to the Carr’s Wash for Kids event where she was able to present her donation to Coach Lloyd Carr personally. Rachel continues to save her money for future donations in what she calls her "charity pig."
Meeting the Coach
One of Rachel’s passions is animals. On June 9, she was able to combine her love for animals and art with being able to do something to help other kids. That morning, Rachel walked into the Carr’s Wash for Kids event armed with two of her piggy banks, which she had painted maize and blue the previous week with her mom. Stacey recounts how Rachel met with Coach Carr to get her piggy banks signed and how "she was so excited then about donating the money, she gave the pigs to him and told him that he could keep the monies inside."
"They had to shake it and shake it, till all the coins came out," adds Rachel, beaming.
Listening to the Drogs speak about charity, it is easy to see what an inseparable part of their lives it is. Not only have they made several donations to the U−M, but Scott works in philanthropy for Comerica Charitable Services Group and his passion is evident when he talks about helping clients identify things that move them. "It's not about telling people what to do, or which causes to contribute to. It’s about each person finding out what affects them, what they’re passionate about, and then coming up with unique and personal ways to contribute," he says. Rachel’s contribution was certainly unique. As Stacey explains, "The signed piggy banks are not only unique Michigan memorabilia, but they are also something Rachel can keep as a reminder to her that charity is important."
 Scott and Stacey Drogs have a special place in their hearts for the Holden Neonatal Intensive Care Unit where Rachel spent the first week of her life.
Every Penny Counts
It’s a powerful message, and one that Rachel is learning early. This is the second year Rachel is making a contribution to C. S. Mott Children’s Hospital. Stacey describes how Rachel has set aside a "charity pig" into which she puts all the money she would like to donate. Her contributions this year were more than $40, with hard−earned money from chores as well as monetary gifts from her family and the tooth fairy. Supplementing his daughter’s donation, Scott has contributed the balance necessary to purchase a Pewabic tile that Rachel will paint and decorate for the new hospital’s interior.
U−M C. S. Mott Children’s Hospital is committed to involving patients, families and the entire community in the building of the new hospital. Rachel is living proof that you are never too young to get involved
as an active and engaged member of the community. The idea of a family coming together in the spirit of giving is an empowering one, and the only person more thrilled than Scott and Stacey about their daughter’s potential to make a difference is Rachel herself.
Find out how you can contribute to the new hospital by visiting: www.med.umich.edu/mott/help/gift.html |
