Community Corner
Heights Family Memorializes Daughter Through Nonprofit
The Holmes family created One Thumbs Up, a nonprofit to help special needs kids who live their lives courageously.
Slightly over two years ago, 17-year-old Chicago Heights resident Rainia Holmes died after experiencing complications stemming from her epilepsy. Shortly after Rainia’s death, the Holmes family decided to honor her memory by establishing One Thumbs Up, a nonprofit dedicated to epilepsy education and helping kids who maintain a positive attitude while living with special needs, reports the Sun-Times Media.
The organization’s name came from the “thumbs up” sign Rainia would give to her family after a seizure to let them know she’s OK.
“It helped her to remain positive despite the adversity she faced,” Rainia’s mother, Carol, told the Sun-Times Media.
One Thumbs Up is already making a difference, having donated two $500 college scholarships and several holiday care baskets for students in Bloom SD 206 and Chicago Heights SD 170 to kids with special needs.
On Aug. 17, they’ll be hosting a back-to-school block party on the 1600 block of Ingrid Ln. from noon to dusk. School supplies and backpacks will be given out to students in need, and the family is also planning a raffle.
For more information on One Thumbs Up, visit their website.
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