12-Year-Old Takes a Chance to Write a Letter to Costco's CEO for Fundraiser Help - Within Minutes He Receives a Reply

We often hear stories about big box stores and companies with CEOs who have lost touch with everyday people and the reality of how things are for many. So when you hear about a CEO who is willing to not only engage with his customers but also help them out, the kindness of it warms your heart.

That’s why this story of a sixth grader who wrote to the CEO of Costco is getting so much attention. Not only does it show that there is still some good at the top, but that sometimes, all you need to do is ask and you shall receive.

A Valentine’s Day Fundraiser

Last year, a 12-year-old boy needed a way to promote his North Hollywood school’s Valentine’s Day fundraiser.

Grant Cerwin knew he could do roses or something like that, but he wanted something even bigger to get people’s attention. So he took a chance and wrote a letter to Costco's CEO about them possibly donating one of their famous 93-inch stuffed teddy bears.

“We want to raffle off one of your giant bears as a Valentine’s Day fundraiser for our school,” he wrote, as per ABC News. “I would make sure everyone knew you gave it to us in our school newsletter, on social media, and with a big sign by the bear. I know it is a long shot, but I thought it couldn't hurt to ask.”

A Surprising Response

Cerwin admitted he didn’t really expect a response, but Craig Jelinek responded within minutes. He forwarded the email to his employees and instructed them to “do whatever it takes” to get Walter Reed Middle School a giant teddy bear.

Soon, Cerwin’s ask was fulfilled.

“Good morning Grant. I am the Toy Supervisor at our Costco’s LA Regional office. I have good news, Costco will be donating a 93” Plush Bear to your school to use in your Valentine’s Day fundraiser!” read an email. “We could have it delivered to the school directly so your parents don’t have to worry about transporting it.”

The bear was a huge hit. More than 300 people paid for a raffle ticket to win it, raising $1,500 for the school. Those funds went toward future handball courts and the school’s mural.

“I really learned that you have to take your chances,” Cerwin added. “So, if you have that chance, you should take it.”

A Valuable Lesson

As Cerwin himself said, sometimes in life you just have to take a chance. People are often afraid to ask for what they need for fear of rejection. But at the end of the day, if you don’t ask you definitely won’t get what you need.

Often, you’ve got nothing to lose by asking for help. That can be true of a fundraiser or community rally, but it can also be true when we need help in our own lives. So pick up the phone, send a text or even write an email if that’s what you’re comfortable with.

But never be afraid to ask for help. We all need a little help now and then. And if you’re the type of person who is willing to help others, the odds are pretty great that people will want to help you in your time of need, too.

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