COEUR d'ALENE - Making Christmas magical for 6-year-old Madison Clarke is Abbi Sonesen's No. 1 goal.

The 24-year-old Coeur d'Alene resident has never organized a fundraiser, but she is determined to make magic happen for Madi and her dad, Tony Clarke, 31, of Coeur d'Alene.

"Our focus is to get enough money to get them into their own house," Sonesen said. "They are currently sharing a bedroom in a friend's house."

It has been a devastating year for the Clarkes. Hannah Galloway, Clarke's high school sweetheart and Madi's mom, was killed in a one-vehicle crash in Montana in July, leaving Clarke to raise their daughter on his own. About a week after her death, he was given a notice to find another place to live because he was not on the lease. His seasonal job laid him off in September. While he is working two days a week right now, it's just not enough.

"I would really like me and Madi to have our own home," Clarke said. "I just want the best for her, you know?"

Sonesen has been close friends with the family for years. She said although she has no money of her own to give, she is willing to spend as much time as it takes to help.

"Tony is a hard worker and makes sure Madi is happy and healthy," she told The Press.

The fundraiser, "Making Magic for Madison," will be from noon to 3 p.m. on Dec. 22 in Bay 1 in The Coeur d'Alene Resort. It will feature a raffle and silent auction, with opportunities to win items and packages from businesses such as Fins and Feathers, The Resort, Northern Quest Casino and Rustlers Roost.

"Before Christmas, you can possibly finish your Christmas list," Sonesen said.

The fundraiser is free and open to the public. Sonesen said she is working on a 501(c)3 status with The Altar Church so cash donations can be tax write-offs.

"This is a chance for our community to give back to a family in need," Sonesen said. "This is important."

Visit www.facebook.com/makingmagicformadison, email Sonesen at [email protected] or call 755-8233 for info.