Second Chance Fundraising is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Johnstown, Pennsylvania with the goal of raising awareness for organ donation. The organization was formed in 2016 by best friends Craig Smith and Derek Partsch after Craig received a heart transplant in the fall of 2015. Second Chance Fundraising is a way for Craig to use his second chance to help others who may be experiencing similar situations and encourage people to BE A HERO by registering to be an organ donor.
Craig Smith is the Executive Director of Second Chance Fundraising. Craig received his bachelors degree in journalism from Penn State University and his Master of Business Administration from Saint Francis University. He currently resides in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and works for the Eye & Ear Foundation of Pittsburgh. After receiving a heart transplant in the fall of 2015, Craig knew that he needed to give back and help others who may be dealing with medical problems and to help spread the word about organ donation awareness. With an extensive background in event planning and fundraising, Craig loves the opportunity to engage with community members and talk about being an organ donor!
Derek is the Marketing Coordinator for Second Chance Fundraising. He resides in Johnstown, Pennsylvania and is currently employed as the Manager of Sponsorships and Group Ticket Sales for the Johnstown Tomahawks. Derek began his career in the community relations department of the Pittsburgh Pirates where he assisted in coordinating a variety of events to benefit Pirates Charities. Derek and Craig have been best friends since fourth grade and both look forward to planning fundraising events in the future to benefit those in need.