We tried some new activities at this event and had an incredible visit. The children absolutely loved the bouncy house, and many parents reported that the inflatable princess castle energized their usually shy and withdrawn children.
October 19th - Monroe Carrell, Jr. Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt
Several girls were in shock to see the princesses and took a bit to warm up to them. Several girls and boys “melted” into Ana’s arms with a huge hug! Several questions regarding activities happening back at the princess’s castles. After all nails and lips painted, crowns selected and tutus on, the girls were excited to have a portrait taken with the Princesses. So much fun to watch these faces.
October 12 - Hero for a Day at Hassenfeld Children's Hospital at NYU Langone
...As we colored with one of the kids, we overheard the parents appreciating our visit to the staff. They said their daughter hasn't been as cooperative in coming to her appointments lately, but when they found out there was a special event today, she was eager to get there. I was humbled to hear, yet again, how our presence was enough to make things just a tad easier on the kids and their parents. It's why we're here.
October 13 - UPMC Queen for a Day
Not unlike the parable about the Star Thrower, tossing beached starfish back into the ocean and stating "it made a difference to that one!", we had a smaller-than-usual crowd for our October "Fun Friday" event, marking the end of a radiation treatment week for just one special little girl. The party, however, was extremely heartwarming and memorable to the hospital staff & FADF volunteers.
Northern NY Chapter Announcement
Please help me give a warm welcome to Jordynn Barnhart! She has been recruited as For a Day Northern NY's Community Outreach Coordinator.
Jordynn is working towards her Bachelor's in Broadcast Journalism & Public Relations, while minoring in Graphic Design. She has experience as the Lifestyles Editor for the MD Newspaper, Social Media Manager for C&K Magazine, and Radio Host at "The Pulse" Radio Station. As for volunteer experience, she mainly works with children, but also has participated in causes to help the homeless, veterans, seniors, education and disaster relief.
Her three focuses in life are: people, positivity and passion. She gets her energy from being around people, especially those who share similar passions; which is why she has always loves volunteering. She is constantly surrounded by people who are trying to make our world a better place. She believes that we are all here on Earth to help each other.
Congratulations Jordynn! Welcome aboard!
September 13 - Texas Children's Cancer and Hematology Clinic
Our morning at Texas Children's Clinic was filled with so much laughter that all our cheeks hurt from all the smiling and laughing. We interacted with 22 girls and 12 boys. They were so excited to see us! After the flooding that Houston has faced from Harvey, this event was very special to me and my volunteers and I do believe the kids really appreciated the distraction. Today has been an absolute pleasure and I truly appreciate being a part of this organization.
September 20 - Welcome back, Orlando!
We are pleased to announce our newest chapter has been revived in Orlando, Florida! Jessica Sepulveda-Viola will spearhead our activities in the area. We are excited to partner with Jessica to bring back our services to central Florida.
To register for volunteer notification opportunities with the Orlando chapter, visit www.foradayfoundation.org/volunteeropportunities and select 'Orlando.'
Donate towards Orlando's upstart fund at foraday.org/orlando
August 29th - Family Event at SMAAASH facility & September 13th Twins Game
September 11 - Ronald McDonald House, Rochester, MN
August 24 - Monroe Carell, Jr Children's Hospital at Vanderbilt
August 29 - Upstate Golisano Children’s Hospital - INAUGURAL VISIT!
Today was Northern NY’s first For a Day party! It was a huge success and there are no words to describe the reaction I witnessed. In attendance were my wonderful volunteers; Myself, Jordynn Barnhart, Melissa, Kane, Amanda Wall, Cathy Renner and Patti Gomez. Patti was our special guest as Mrs. Syracuse and made a huge impact on the children. In total, we saw 8 girls and 7 boys.
