Another wonderful Children’s Event, one of the best things we do at Shine and Inspire!
119 children and their families were our guests for a day of fun, music, games, crafting, lunch, hot chocolate station, haircuts and a family portrait. Thanks to all the wonderful sponsors (see shineandinspire.org for the list), each child went home with a coat, hat, gloves, underwear, socks, shoes, clothing and something from their holiday wish list. So many other people to thank, it takes a village:
- The amazing Shine & Inspire board who made it all happen – Donna Powell, Karen McLaughlin, Sharon Evanko, Mary Jane Rossi, Nawaz Merchant and Carol Stolow!
- The fantastic volunteers, both new and those who keep coming back we appreciate you! We had a record number of young people this event, so proud to see a sense of helping the community start in our youth!
- Our volunteers who helped with the children’s shopping Karen Jacko, Linda Petrocelli, Margaret Conrad, Robin Schoonmaker, Pat Sedmak, Suzanne Beckman, Rosanne Pickell, Diane Coleman, Paula Matsiak, Fay Sagotsky, Blanche Forker, Sweta Patel, Karen McLaughlin and Donna Powell!
- The Civil Air Patrol in their uniform finest who had air simulator games and air patrol crafts – these young people are such an inspiration to the children!
- Photographer Doe’Rain Deane who took family portraits that were just beautiful!
- Photographer Isabela Ertel who took pictures of the event, so wonderful!
- Our amazing stylist Carlee Mooney who gave haircuts and added hair tinsel (she was busy)!
- Maureen from Dancemaur Company who kept the music, dancing and games going!
- Book Smiles for all the wonderful books!
- New Jersey Weddings and Events for all the wonderful food – Antonio, Beth, Joann and team who are the best!!!
- The amazing Kari who made balloon characters for the children while up on stilts!
- Lala & Mimi’s Pajama Project that gave pajamas to every child!
- Central Paint and KK Sweets who donated the cookies (and supplies) for our cookie decorating craft table, and cupcakes for dessert!
- VIP Very Important Parties who donated the festive balloon arch!
- Emily and Justine, our princess volunteers whom the children just loved!
- Connor and his dad from the Hamilton A’s who helped unload and setup the event!
- Our knitting and crocheting volunteers who made hats and blankets for the children!
