Who do you turn to for support with leading Kids and Smiles?

My family helps a lot. We first began hosting events in our home. When we had people over for dinner, we would ask them to bring a toy for kids.

For example, in April, my mom, dad, sister, and grandparents all helped with a big Easter egg hunt event. I received a $500 grant for Global Youth Service Day from Youth Service America and Disney’s Friends for Change. About 70 people came, including the mayor. My 8-year-old sister filled eggs. My mom got us chairs, tables, and a microphone system. My dad went to Staples and picked up flyers, and he is also working on getting us business cards. My grandfather told his friends about the event, and he was in charge of food. My grandmother was in charge of decoration. Everyone chipped in. And in May, we gave about 50 toys to Miller Children’s and Women’s Hospital in Long Beach, CA.

Community organizations help a lot, too. One time, my sister’s Girl Scout troop held a toy drive. They collected the toys, and I took the toys to the hospital. Another time, my school book fair had a donation box for Kids and Smiles. My basketball team held a small event to help Kids and Smiles, and everyone pitched in with ideas.

In the future, we hope to have bigger events. We want to inspire kids from the community to help and let everyone know they can be involved.