Celebrating the 2025 Class of Next Generation Philanthropists

Riley Children’s Foundation is proud to announce the 2025 class of Next Generation Philanthropists. These eight high school seniors and juniors displayed exceptional leadership and character through their contributions to their school’s Riley Dance Marathon or Kids Caring & Sharing™ program.

This eighth annual class includes students from across the state. They serve as shining representatives of the high school students in Indiana who fundraised for Riley Dance Marathon and Kids Caring & Sharing™ during the 2024-25 school year. They have been a part of established Riley fundraising programs and started new fundraising efforts. They are Riley kids and Riley siblings. They have spent hundreds of hours raising thousands of dollars—all for the children and families who depend on Riley Children’s Health.

Introducing the 2025 class of Next Generation Philanthropists:

Ava Britton-Heitz, Senior, Westfield High School (Westfield, IN) – Ava served her Dance Marathon program as Vice President of Finance and Sponsorship and intends to study environmental engineering in the fall. “Just as I care about preserving a future for Riley kids, I care about preserving a future where generations can continue to enjoy and connect with the world around them,” she said.

Brooklynn Ling, Junior, South Spencer High School (Reo, IN) – Brooklynn helped launch South Spencer’s first Riley Dance Marathon event. “This program has made me open my eyes to the impact we have on others’ lives. It has also helped me develop my organizational skills and become more outgoing,” she said.

Callista Dillion, Junior, Terre Haute South Vigo High School (Terre Haute, IN) – Callista has long been involved with Riley Children’s Health, from rolling the halls in a Riley wagon when she became a Riley kid at 5 years old to helping restart the Dance Marathon program at her high school. “Riley saved my life, and I owe it to the hospital, to the other children, and families to give back,” she said.

Chase Barker, Senior, Terre Haute North High School (Terre Haute, IN) – During his time with Dance Marathon, Chase helped strengthen community involvement and participation through events like a drive-in movie. “My experiences with Dance Marathon and Riley Children’s Health have taught me the power of connection, vulnerability, and advocacy, along with many other things,” he said.

Libby Barrett, Senior, Carmel High School (Carmel, IN) - Libby served as chair of the largest high school Dance Marathon in the nation, with a focus on increasing student attendance. “My whole life I have been afraid of making mistakes. After Carmel DM was over, I saw the most growth in myself through letting myself try new things and fail,” she said.

Libby Parkins, Senior, Brebeuf Jesuit Preparatory School (Indianapolis, IN) - Libby grew from a founding member of her school’s Dance Marathon as a freshman to co-president as a senior. She was also selected as a 2025 Riley Champion presented by Kroger. “I believe the future of Riley’s success lies in inspiring and empowering young people to give, which is why I plan to use my voice to continue championing the cause,” she said.

Julia Kolodziejczyk, Senior, Westfield High School (Westfield, IN) - As Vice President of Event Operations and Hospital Relations, Julia helped to revamp in-event fundraising, leading to a $10K increase from the previous year. “Participating in philanthropy through Dance Marathon has taught me the importance of empathy, the power of community, and the profound effect small acts of kindness can have,” she said.

Olivia Lynn O'Haver, Junior, Center Grove High School (Greenwood, IN) - Olivia used her experience as a Riley patient as motivation to become a top fundraiser for her school for two consecutive years. “My involvement with Riley has been transformative, and I am grateful for the opportunities it has given me to grow and develop my passion for medicine,” she said.

Interested in learning more about this class of Next Generation Philanthropists? Check out the @RileyKidsDM Instagram this summer to see each recipient highlighted.

On behalf of all of us at Riley Children’s Foundation, congratulations to the 2025 class and thank you for all you’ve done for Riley kids and families!