Teen plans fundraiser to rescue rainforests

When Molly Nasatir first heard that rainforests are diminishing, she wanted to do something to reverse that trend.

"We need the rainforest to live," she said.

So the 16-year-old did some research and discovered an organization called Rainforest 2 Reef that focuses on land and wildlife conservation.

To raise money for the group, Nasatir will hold a family-friendly event from 1 to 3 p.m. Sunday at eSkape, 350 N. McHenry Road, Buffalo Grove.

Tickets cost $25 in advance and $30 at the door and include laser tag, bowling and batting cages. There also will be pizza, pasta and drinks. All proceeds will go to Rainforest 2 Reef.

Studying the rainforests in her environmental science class at Stevenson High School, Amanda Fleischman said the rainforests are in a precarious state and money is needed to preserve them. It is a great cause to help her friend support.

"There are so many benefits the rainforest has that it's hard not to get involved. It's such a big issue," the Lincolnshire teen said.

Nasatir, a Highland Park resident and sophomore at Highland Park High School, is not new to charity work. Her father, Mike, said she has donated her time to various causes, whether it be serving as president in her school's leadership club, joining charity walks or volunteering at food pantries.

Because Nasatir devotes so much of her time to help others in addition to her school work, Mike asked her why she now wanted to help the rainforests.

"She feels if we have no rainforest left, we will not have any other things to worry about," he said. "Her thing was if she can help solve this problem, we can work on all other problems as well."

Nasatir said she was attracted to the group not only because they donate 90 percent of what they receive to the rainforest, but they also help endangered species.

To plan the charity event, Nasatir said she wanted to plan an activity where people will have fun while they donate to the cause.

The event also will feature a raffle and silent auction. Among the items to be given away are Chicago Blackhawks tickets, artwork and gift certificates to restaurants.

For details or to buy advance tickets, contact Nasatir at (847) 800-2568 or MalVicllc@aol.com.