Free Spirit Inspires Lasting Change
Hunter’s Fund honors the life of Hunter Watson, a young man of extremely diverse talents who was killed at 20-years-old when he was fatally injured as a passenger in a distracted driving collision.
Through distracted driving education and awarding grants to help young people’s involvement in performing arts, music, computer science, and entrepreneurship, Hunter’s Fund empowers young people and keeps Hunter’s spirit alive.
Who was Hunter Watson?
“If I had to describe Hunter Watson in just a couple words, I would say he was a free spirit. He didn’t follow others but created his own path – he was funny and very creative. I had the pleasure of being his teacher, coach and camp director.
Even now that he’s been gone a few years, I can still picture him at age 14 when he was one of my apprentice counselors at the Potomac School camp. I planned a project for the counselors to volunteer at a local preschool and the toddlers just loved Hunter. One day, he was riding a tricycle so small for him that his knees were hitting his chin. And all the kids were giggling.
It’s been the joy of my life to teach young people like Hunter. . . to coach them in sports . . . and play a small role in shaping their futures. Nothing is more heartbreaking than losing one of them at such a young age. I will always have a special spot in my heart for Hunter.
Now I’m a proud donor to Hunter’s Fund. Many people don’t know that this organization exists in part because of an incredible group of young people, Hunter’s friends, who stepped up to plan and build it. I taught some of these kids in 7th and 8th grade and to see how they have matured and grown through this nonprofit work is really inspiring.
These young men and women have demonstrated genuine leadership to keep Hunter’s spirit alive and it’s truly an honor to be a part of it. I love the whole mission of the organization, but I am especially passionate about ending distracted driving.
I tell kids all the time, when you are in the car, just drive. Don’t fuss with the radio or your phone. In the blink of an eye, your whole life could change. It’s just not worth it. As long as Hunter’s Fund continues carrying that message and growing future leaders, I will keep opening my checkbook to support them.
So much good has come from the tragedy of Hunter’s death. Every time I donate, a little smile comes across my face remembering Hunter on that tricycle.”
By Sharyn Stein, Teacher at The Potomac School
Get Involved:
Sharyn Stein has been committed to student success at the Potomac School in McLean, VA for 29 years as a much admired teacher, coach and administrator. She instructed Hunter and his brother Teddy in Math as well as teaching or coaching most of their friends. She has supported Hunter’s Fund from day one and helped keep the connection to his school days alive.