Friends of Karen serves families with a child (newborn through age 21) who has been diagnosed with and is actively in treatment for cancer or another life-threatening illness. Imperial Cleaning has participated as a Board Member and sponsored active participants in the annual fundraising and 5k walk since 2012, raising a total of over $130,000 during that time. To join us in supporting children in need, make a contribution today.
Friends of Karen Began with an Act of Kindness
In 1978, 16-year-old Karen MacInnes was terminally ill with Lafora disease, a rare genetic disorder. She stayed in a New York City hospital for almost a year. Her parents traveled 110 miles daily between their home in Purdys, New York, and the hospital to be with her. Karen wanted to spend her remaining time at home surrounded by those she loved. Despite the overwhelming challenges they faced for her care, her parents brought Karen home.
Sheila Petersen, a family friend, appealed to the community about the plight of Karen and her family. Friends and neighbors gave generously to help pay the mounting bills for the 'round-the-clock care Karen needed during the last 11 months of her life.
After Karen died, her family expressed their wish that Sheila would help other families with a catastrophically ill child. Sheila named her efforts Friends of Karen and used the remaining funds to help another child, and then another. Today, Friends of Karen helps hundreds of ill children and their families every month.
Join the 2021 Walk/Run
Join our Friends of Karen Walk/Run team this year, knowing every step you take will go towards supporting children with cancer and other life-threatening illnesses and their families.
Feel the team spirit, camaraderie, and goodwill as you cross the finish line for our kids!
- September 17, 2021 - September 19, 2021
- 14th Annual Walk/Run
- 5K/10K
- Half and Full Marathon 3-Day Challenge
Support our children and families today! Click here to register.
Why Imperial Cleaning Walks with Friends of Karen
Every year, the employees of Imperial Cleaning complete the Long Island Marathon to show their support for Friends of Karen. We know that every step you take will go towards supporting a child with cancer and other life-threatening illnesses and their families. In doing so, we build stronger bonds not only with each other but with the community as a whole.
Imperial Cleaning's owners Jeffrey Krinick and David Feldman have served on the board of Friends of Karen for over 10 years, happily dedicating their time and resources to this great cause.
How You Can Help
Your donation will deliver much-needed help for hundreds of families caring for a child battling cancer or another life-threatening illness. Friends of Karen is a lifeline helping each family navigate the stressful journey of their child's illness.
All donations are 100 percent tax-deductible. Your generosity is greatly appreciated, and every contribution makes a significant impact. Click here to donate today!
If you prefer to donate by phone, call Friends of Karen at (914) 617-4040. To donate by mail, download and complete the mail-in form and send it with your check, money order, or credit card information to the address noted on the form.
Give a Tribute or Memorial Gift
Celebrate a birth, marriage, anniversary, graduation, holiday, or another milestone by making a tribute gift. Or, remember a loved one or express your sympathy with a memorial gift. We will send a letter acknowledging your gift with your special message to the person(s) you designate.
Join the Monthly Guardian Of Hope Club
By contributing a predetermined amount each month, you will have the satisfaction of knowing you are providing ongoing vital support to families in need. Your donation will be charged to your credit card each month. If you wish to increase, decrease, or suspend your gift for any reason, just let the Friends of Karen know.
Click here to become a Monthly Guardian of Hope, or call Gabriella DiSisto at 914-617-4047 to enroll and set up a monthly gift from your checking account or credit card.
Your contributions will help Friends of Karen support families and children whose lives have has been impacted by cancer or another life-threatening illness.
