It’s been quite awhile since our last newsletter and we’re sure some of you have been wondering what happened to us since we’ve been “dark” for so long.  We want to reassure you that we’re fine, but we do have some big news to share.

After careful consideration, we have decided to dissolve the Families Giving Back organization. This was an extremely difficult decision to make, but we feel it is the best one for us and our families at this time. We’re incredibly proud of the work we’ve done over the last 6+ years and it’s been a privilege to meet and work with so many wonderful families and nonprofits in our community that share the same passion for teaching children the importance of compassion and giving back.

There is one organization in particular that we are excited to tell you about: Angel Kids. Angel Kids is an amazing program sponsored by Angel Mamas, a Valley nonprofit founded by our friend, Shira Nicks. (See section below for more information)

Angel Mamas started Angel Kids earlier this year, with the main goal of providing a way for kids to spread kindness in the community by helping others.  They help people and animals in need in a variety of ways, such as providing the homeless with meals and hygiene packs, collecting money for animal rescues, and collecting small toys for patients at Phoenix Children’s Hospital to play with after their medical treatments.  While Angel Mamas supports Angel Kids by providing mentorship and opportunities for children to lead, volunteer, and raise awareness for those in need, Angel Kids is run by the kids! Participating kids take the lead in deciding the projects they are going to do, executing the projects, fundraising, and more.  They are not only learning the importance of giving back, but also valuable teamwork and leadership skills!

       

With Angel Mamas/Angel Kids and Families Giving Back sharing such similar goals, it only made sense for our organizations to collaborate to further the common mission of teaching children compassion and the importance of helping others.  While Families Giving Back will no longer be hosting volunteer events, we will be utilizing the learnings, projects and nonprofit relationships we’ve developed over the last six years to help Angel Kids expand their positive impact in the community. We’ve provided Angel Kids with all of FGB’s remaining project supplies as well as funding to create a dedicated budget for Angel Kids that is separate from Angel Mamas.  If you liked FGB’s at-home projects, you’ll be happy to know that Angel Kids plans to offer these and other at-home projects in the future.  There are also plans to incorporate event activities that work well for younger volunteers, as we know that the even the smallest hands can make a big impact!  So whether you have toddlers or teens, your family can get involved with Angel Kids and make a positive difference in our community!  For moms that are also interested in volunteering on your own, we encourage you to learn more about Angel Mamas!

We can’t wait to volunteer with our kids at upcoming Angel Kids’ events and we really hope you all will join us!  It’s such a fun and rewarding way to spend time as a family and teach our kids important values.  It couldn’t be easier to participate! Pre-registration is not required for events.  Your family is welcome to attend any Angel Kids event that works with your schedule.  See below for information about their upcoming events!  To stay updated, follow Angel Kids on social media (see below).  A dedicated Angel Kids website is also in the works!