Hey everyone! I can’t believe I am officially 30 years old!!

2020 has been the craziest year, to say the least.  Through all the insanity, I’ve been lucky enough to gain a pinch of clarity.  The pandemic pushed me back to volunteering.  I’ve always wanted to help people in need, but uncertain times turned a desire into a necessity.  So many people are struggling.  A little time and a little money can go a long way. 

Instead of gifts this year, I think it’d be much more fulfilling to give back.  I would love, love, love if you would donate to my GoFundMe for the Orangewood Foundation!  My goal is to raise $10,000 dollars for this fantastic organization that provides foster and community youth services.

The Orangewood Foundation has a myriad of programs that help kids develop healthy relationships, strengthen physically and emotionally, and provide housing options and referrals.  Their newest program, The Lighthouse, offers housing and other services to sex-trafficking victims. 

The foundation has a special place in my heart.  Back in high school, it was the first place I volunteered with my mom. When my mom was a teenager, she watched one of her friends go through the foster care system, navigating life without a consistent family unit. That experience ignited her passion for helping youth, and she’s passed that on to me. 

We need organizations like the Orangewood Foundation.  The government can only do so much, and usually not nearly enough.  Recently I met with Humberto, the foundation’s community engagement manager, to discuss the best way to help.  Humberto stressed that art has been extremely beneficial to the kids.  Let’s provide them that outlet, as well as some other wellness items and gifts.

The kids specifically requested:

1. Art kits with canvas panels, paint pots, acrylic paint, sponges and brush sets
2. Self-care kits with 5 minute a day notebook, face masks, candles, lip gloss, body scrub, crystals, socks, etc
3. Christmas gifts for the kids (Each kid will send us exactly what they want for Christmas so we can bring some holiday cheer in their lives)

The money you donate, if you choose, will go towards making these requests a reality. 

I would be so incredibly grateful for your generosity!  If you cannot donate at this time, please feel free to share with friends.  Let’s give $10,000 to give these kids some much needed love. 

Thanks in advance for your consideration, your donations and most importantly, your friendship over the years!