Editors Note: NFL on FOX sideline reporter Jaime Maggio writes about her efforts to raise money for victims of Superstorm Sandy. When Hurricane Sandy slammed the East Coast, the images in the media were (and continue to be) heartbreaking. As a native of Long Island, NY, I felt helpless watching from so far away as towns that were part of my childhood were devastated. In an attempt to help, I partnered with Brendan Simmons, a FOX Sports colleague and also a New Yorker, to create a fundraiser to help those people left trying to pick up the pieces in Sandy's wake. Our initial goals were small - have a gathering for Monday Night Football and encourage friends to donate clothing, supplies, and $10 at the door. The end result exceeded anything we could have hoped for. In just a weeks time, we pooled our contacts and resources and threw one heck of an event. With the support of friends and colleagues we organized a 250-person fundraiser and clothing drive with a silent auction and raffle that could rival a high-end charity event. Lining the walls of our silent auction was autographed memorabilia from some of the biggest names in sports, including Adrian Peterson, Albert Pujols, Serena Williams, Anze Kopitar, Steven Jackson, Matt Ryan, James Worthy, John Wooden, David Beckham, Blake Griffin, Chris Paul, Joe Torre and Oscar de la Hoya. We offered passes to the Playboy Mansion, a foursome of golf at Trump National, along with tickets to see the Lakers, Clippers, Dodgers or a taping of American Idol or LIVE with Kelly and Michael. In the end, we raised over $11,000 and a sent a very large truck filled with clothing and supplies (thank you, SOS Global, for generously agreeing to ship for free). For me, the best part of the evening was looking around the crowded room at colleagues, friends, friends of friends, etc. who came out and contributed to a worthy cause. I believe that, together, we will make a small difference. If you'd like to make a donation to Everlasting Smiles Foundation, click here.
