Sahara Moore, pictured bottom left, is a first-year student majoring in biology and art.

Sahara Moore ’24, a first-year student majoring in biology and art, recently founded A Bear, A Book, & A Balloon, a new philanthropic student organization.

The student club assembles care packages of items—a teddy bear, a book, and a balloon—and delivers them to patients at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.

Their goal is simply to bring happiness to children who are experiencing difficult times, while contributing to Oglethorpe’s philanthropic efforts and embodying the university’s motto: Make a life. Make a living. Make a difference.

“Sahara is one of the most gifted, determined, organized, and thoughtful Compass students I have ever had the pleasure to academically advise,” said René Alvarez, director of academic success and advising. “When she asked me to serve as her club advisor, I jumped at the chance. I am proud of how effortlessly she leverages her talents and care for others into actionable results.”

“Sahara embodies the ideals of Oglethorpe University particularly in making a difference in the lives of all she encounters. She is one to watch!” – René Alvarez

In October, the club made its first delivery to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta – Egleston Hospital. Through this effort, they were able to brighten the day for 40 patients, covering two floors of the hospital, including the Aflac cancer floor. The next delivery is planned for November.

One child’s family shared with the club an Instagram photo  of their son with his gifts. The boy is currently going through his fourth round of chemotherapy while battling an infection from a recent surgery. When he received his teddy bear, book, and balloon, his mother said it was the first time his family had seen him smile all week.

To support the organization’s November bear, book, and balloon donation, please send contributions to $AbearABookAballoon on Cashapp.