Making a Difference - Summer of Fun
Summer Camp
This year, thanks to the unwavering support of a few partners, we had the incredible opportunity to send 14 deserving children to both day and sleep-away camps, and the impact on their lives was nothing short of transformational. It boosted their confidence, nurtured lasting friendships, and created cherished memories. Camp offered a safe space for personal growth and instilled a sense of belonging, fostering gratitude and hope for the future.
Impact & Photos
‘I felt like I could be myself at camp. Nobody judged me, and I made friends who liked me for who I am.’ – teen, age 14
‘Camp was like a magical forest where we learned new things every day and made friends who felt like family.’ – child, age 9
‘I want to be a professional basketball player one day, and camp showed me that dreams can come true with dedication.’ – child, age 11
‘I didn’t think I’d have fun at camp, but I did. I felt like I was part of something special.’ – child, age 8
Dream BIG Day: S’mores Campfire
In collaboration with the Girl Scouts, we hosted enchanting S’mores Campfire that brought together 8 girls and their Guardians ad Litem and caregivers. By the crackling campfire, we shared stories, laughter, and delectable s’mores, creating beautiful memories that will be cherished for years to come. Our gratitude goes out to the Girl Scouts for making these moments possible.
Impact & Photos
‘Watching these kids enjoy their s’mores and share laughter around the campfire was really special. Thank you for giving them this opportunity.’ – Guardian ad Litem
‘I love how the marshmallow gets all gooey and melty. It’s like a marshmallow explosion!’ – child, age 8
‘I can’t decide if I like the marshmallow part more or the chocolate part. Maybe both!’ – child, age 9
‘I wasn’t sure about this, but this golden cloud of yumminess was the best thing I’ve eaten’– child, age 13
Christmas in July: Pop-Up Shop
On Tuesday, July 25, 2023, we hosted the Annual Christmas in July Pop-Up Shop and brought the warmth and joy of the holiday season to the heart of summer. At this event, Guardians ad Litem had the opportunity to shop through hundreds of toys, games, puzzles, clothing, and other items for their children to help bring smiles and comfort to children in foster care. In addition, hurricane kits where provided to the families to help them prepare for the upcoming hurricane season.
During Christmas in July, 33 Guardians ad Litem, lined up with bags to fill, shopped for 223 foster care children. All of the items shopped for will be used for birthday gifts, first time visits, court hearings, family enrichment activities, ‘and just because’ treasures.
With help from dedicated volunteers, our space was transformed into wonderland of joy. With joyful hearts and a sprinkle of holiday magic, we extend our warmest thanks to the colleagues at American Express, the team at Caminero Law, and our teen volunteers for making our Christmas in July event sparkle and shine!
Impact & Photos
‘What a great event! I brought the gifts to my little girls right away – they were super excited.’ – Guardian ad Litem
‘Your kindness has brought holiday cheer to our children in the middle of summer.’ – Guardian ad Litem
‘This is one of my favorite events. Thank you so much for bringing joy in the lives of so many kids.’ – Guardian ad Litem