A Heart for her Community

A Heart for her Community

Munster High School Senior Anna Castillo is destined for greatness with her philanthropic soul and her genuinely radiant personality. 

When she heard Hospice of the Calumet Area was undertaking an Honoring Legacies: Capital Campaign for their 25-year-old William J. Riley Memorial Residence, an inpatient facility for patients that need 24/7 critical care, she wanted to help.

Castillo recruited her best pals and purchased Disney Frozen and other holiday costumes to visit children during the holidays to “spread holiday cheer to kids in the Region.” They trekked all over Lake and Porter County and Illinois for three weeks only asking for donations to be made for Hospice of the Calumet Area. 

“We know sometimes during the holidays people struggle and we thought about the patients and families at the [William J. Riley Memorial Residence] and wanted to help, said Castillo. “The holidays are special and my Grandmother [Sylvia Castillo] recently passed and I credit a lot of my growing up to her because I looked up to her because she was all about kindness. I was taught to celebrate life always.”

Castillo, an avid soccer player, says her entire family has a giving spirit and has influenced her to always think about others. 

A few years ago, Anna’s mother, Amy Castillo, and her Community Healthcare physical therapy team, volunteered to purchase and plant flowers at the William J. Riley Memorial Residence.

In January, Anna presented over $500, which instantly was doubled with the $190,000 Honoring Legacies Capital Campaign matching donation gift from an anonymous donor, to HCA. 

“No gift is too small or too large,” said Joan McInerney, HCA development director. “It’s inspiring to see young people like Anna that have a heart for giving and making an impact on their community. I know she has big things ahead in her future.”