I am firm believer in “everything happens for a reason.” I donated a stroller one time to Florence Crittenton Services and that one little action brought me down a much longer and rewarding road. I loved the concept of this local non-profit and couldn’t think of a better place for me to volunteer. I was specifically drawn to Sarah’s House; a extension of FCS which houses underage mothers and their babies. I am a mom with most everything I need and this is still the hardest job on the planet. The girls of Sarah’s House are grateful to have a bed, food, and care for their babies. Not only that, they are just happy to be able to go to get an education and preparation for life after high school. I wanted to offer something to these fellow moms, regardless of our differing backgrounds, but what could I offer?
My first idea was to take pictures of the families throughout the year so they could have photos and memories of each changing stage. While visiting the facility I often noticed how drab their common area was. The “decorator” in me always fantasized about a make over. Next I was asked to join a focus group in which the staff was going to pick our brains about ways in which to forge more relationships between moms at FCS and moms in the community. We discussed all kinds of ideas for playdates, mentorship, and fundraising. As a last minute comment one staff member casually mentioned doing some room make overs. Clearly my path was leading me here.
Long story short is that me and an awesome group of friends planned, raised money, shopped, and pulled off the make over of the Sarah’s House living room and kitchen. It turned out beautifully (if I do say so myself!) and the best feedback we received from one of the moms was that the room now “felt more like a home.” It started with the simple task of donating a stroller…it ended with a connection between mothers.
For more information on Florence Crittenton Services click, here |
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