Teenager Raises Over $1.2 Million for Blood Cancer Research

Orion Greene’s fundraising effort, spearheaded by his “Greene Goblins” team, utilized creative community engagement to set a new national benchmark for the Student Visionaries of the Year program. Central to the campaign was a custom merchandise line designed by his mother, Heather, which drew inspiration from his father’s passion for piano and the family pet. The effort also received a significant boost through a contribution from Salesforce, where John Greene was previously employed.

The project reflects a deep-rooted family commitment to the organization. John Greene, who battled acute myeloid leukemia for 15 years and underwent three stem cell transplants, had previously raised over $8 million for the cause. Before his death, he encouraged his son to adopt the bold, personal fundraising approach that defined his own advocacy. "I'm driven to support other families facing blood cancer so that one day, no one has to grow up without the people they love," Orion said.

Competition for the national title was intense, with runners-up Isabella Nilio and Valentina DePaço of Villa Walsh Academy raising $715,271. Additionally, 8th grader Gray Shields of The Peck School was recognized as the National Team Member of the Year after raising $210,122 individually. The Student Visionaries of the Year program continues to serve as a training ground for high school students, blending entrepreneurial skill-building with philanthropic impact.