Burke Teen Gives Up Presents To Raise Money For Tornado Victims

BURKE, VA—As Michael Beene's 15th birthday approached on April 15, he wasn't thinking about what presents he wanted. He was thinking about how he could help victims of a recent tornado in rural Alabama.

On March 3, a tornado swept through Beauregard, Alabama, killing 24 people and destroying homes. The devastation hit home for Michael, whose grandparents live in nearby Auburn. The family went to see the aftermath firsthand during Michael's spring break.

"Everyone down there is traumatized," Michael's mother Laura Beene told Patch. "It was just a lot of tragic loss. Many people lost everything down to the grass."

Beene added that while FEMA has helped with disaster relief funds, donations can help fill gaps, including for people encountering problems with their insurance. "They are not accustomed to asking for help. Much of the support has come from their neighbors," she said.

Michael, a freshman at Lake Braddock High School, became inspired to help others through his position as manager of the varsity football team. The previous year, the football team rallied around a girl battling cancer.

Michael's fundraiser to help the tornado victims became his own way of serving others. He's been collecting donations to send to Alabama. The fundraiser started on April 11 and will run through May 11. In the first week, he raised $800.

Additionally, he will have a birthday party at Bowl America Burke on May 5. He's asking his guests to donate to support the tornado victims. Anyone who wants to help can contact Laura Beene at lmbeene@yahoo.com for more information or send a PayPal donation under her email.