First Ever Virtual Haunted Walk Raises Over $200,900 for the Boston Shriners Hospital

Shriners Hospitals for Children — Boston’s first ever Virtual Haunted Walk took place from Oct. 25 through Nov. 2, exceeding the fundraising goal of $200,900! Individuals and teams walked anywhere they wanted, all while raising funds for the Boston Shriners Hospital. COVID-19 could not dampen the Halloween spirit with 157 participants and 34 teams registered. “Initially we were nervous about launching an inaugural event virtually during a pandemic. Our community has really stepped up with a remarkable response and over 580 donations,” said Shiva Damghany, director of development.

All proceeds from the Virtual Haunted Walk 2020 benefit the Boston Shriners Hospital and support and advance excellence in pediatric acute burn care, reconstructive plastic surgery, and cleft lip and palate care, always provided regardless of families’ ability to pay. 

“We are incredibly grateful for every participant who supported our pediatric patients and the vital services and programs that truly make a difference in the lives of children and their families,” said Eileen Skinner, hospital administrator. Eileen’s own team, Skin(ner) and Bones, was among the top fundraising teams. 

Past patient Tarra Curran and her husband, John, served as co-chairs of the Virtual Haunted Walk. Their team, the Spooky Currans, raised over $20,000. “Serving as co-chairs gave us an opportunity to pay it forward for the care I received as a child at the Boston Shriners Hospital,” said Tarra, who required over 30 surgeries when she suffered a burn injury as a toddler. “This is our way of giving back,” she said.

Many other teams joined the Spooky Currans, including the Boston Shriners Hospital’s employee team, the Boo Crew. Team captain Kristine Smith said, “COVID-19 has affected us all in one way or another. When I heard about the Virtual Haunted Walk, I was so excited to jump on board and participate. Halloween is one of my favorite holidays because you can get dressed up and pretend to be anything or anyone you want. Our first team assignment was coming up with a name and we unanimously chose ‘The Boo Crew.’ We were happy to help raise funds to support the great mission of the Boston Shriners Hospital.”

The Anah Shrine Facts & Figures Unit led the way in sponsorship as Jack o’ Lantern Super Hero Champions level sponsors, followed closely by the Rollies Open and Seven Bridges Advisors, LLC. Thank you to all of our sponsors, donors and walkers for helping make the first ever Virtual Haunted Walk a success. We are already planning for next year! The second annual Boston Shriners Hospital Haunted Walk will take place from Oct. 24 – Nov. 1, 2021, so mark your calendars for another hauntingly good time!