Carson King’s viral fundraiser pulls in $2.95 million
Carson King announced Tuesday that his viral fundraiser for the University of Iowa Stead Family Children's Hospital raised $2,959,336.30
King's personal Venmo account received more than $920,000 in donations. The remaining money came via fund-matching agreements from Anheuser-Busch and Venmo.
"I still can't even fathom how much exactly we just raised, and how cool this is and the type of impact this is going to make for all the people," King said.
King's fundraiser began with a handwritten sign asking for beer money at ESPN's "College GameDay."
When money started pouring in and King's Venmo account hit $600, he decided to donate the funds.
University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics CEO Suresh Gunasekaran said the exposure is helping people learn about the hospital's programs.
"We are extremely thankful for all the generosity from everyone," Gunasekaran said.
On Monday, a last-minute benefit concert brought in $50,000 to King's fundraiser.
Musician Zachary Freedom, who performed at the concert, said his son Zion had open heart surgery at the University of Iowa hospital.
"(It was) extremely scary," Freedom said. "There is truly nothing like carrying my son back to the operating table."
Freedom said Zion is doing well thanks to his excellent care and hopes King's fundraiser is the first of many causes to benefit children in Iowa.
"We can continue to come together more and more for a unified people who understand our kids are important," he said.
Money raised from downloads of Freedom's song "This is Iowa" are being donated to charitable causes in the state. Click here to learn more.
King said he asked Venmo to shut down his now-famous account. He wants to get back into a routine and let life settle down before getting started on what's next.
"I think maybe moving forward, I'd like to start a foundation and keep doing this and doing cool things for hospitals around Iowa, around the Midwest, the country (and) recognize cool organizations that are doing nice things for people."
King said anyone interested can donate to the hospital at givetoiowa.org.
The University of Iowa plans to recognize King’s donation at the next home football game.
A statement from the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital said, in part, "We extend a sincere "Thank you." We are simply overwhelmed by the generosity of the many people, organizations, and companies across the country who contributed in support of the kids and their families through Carson King's initiative."
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