Keith Valley Challenge raises over $20K for Make-A-Wish

Students in the Hatboro-Horsham School District made history by celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Keith Valley Challenge on March 27. Each year, eighth-grade students at Keith Valley (KV) Middle School raise money for kids with life-threatening illnesses and compete in games for the Make-A-Wish Philadelphia, Delaware and Susquehanna Valley.

“This is what it means to be a Hatter; making our community better and supporting those around us,” said Assistant Superintendent Ted Domers in his opening remarks.

This year, students raised more than $20,000, and new activities were added to the day. What originally started as a floor hockey challenge to honor the memory of eighth-grade student Billy Whitehead is now so much more. New competitions this year included swimming relays, baking, and talent shows. It was also the first time the challenge was held in the newly built middle school, which opened for the 2025-2026 school year.

“You’re making a real difference in the lives of wish kids, their whole families and their communities,” said Cara Feldman, vice president of development for Make-A-Wish Philadelphia, Delaware and Susquehanna Valley.

During the assembly, students heard directly from a Wish family, Laura and Alaina Wall. Laura spoke about Alaina’s brain tumor and the challenges it created, but also the accomplishments along the way.

“This September she overcame the biggest challenge and learned to walk — something we were not sure she would ever be able to do,” said Laura Wall. “Because Alaina’s tumor could not be completely removed, she will continue to need treatment on and off childhood until her brain stops growing when she is an adult.”

However, Laura is confident that Alaina’s joy will carry her through. Laura thanked Keith Valley Middle School and is excited for her family’s upcoming Make-A-Wish trip to Disney World.

Special guests also included Judge Todd Stephens, PA State Representatives Nancy Guenst and Melissa Cerrato, and PA State Senator Maria Collett.

Before the games kicked off, eighth-grade student Gianna Soto read a poem she wrote, and student Patricia Torres, who won the KV Idol competition, sang the national anthem.