Having volunteered with the Rescue Mission since her college-bound son was in kindergarten, Laura continues to serve our guests in a very special way. Since the opening of our new family success center, Laura and her boyfriend, Scott, have hosted a monthly birthday celebration for shelter residents. “We both knew immediately that this was one of the things that we wanted to do at the mission. Many of the kids have told me that they’ve never seen their name on a cake before. When Scott and I arrive for our monthly parties, parents and kids alike run over to see if their name is on the cake. There is always a whoop of joy and sense of importance when they see their name.”

What started with cake and ice cream has now turned into a party with personalized birthday posters, party favors, games, and a store for those being celebrated to pick gifts from. The birthday boys and girls (adults and kids) feel special and honored to have a celebration specifically for them. It’s such a small amount of time to bring such a large amount of joy.

Our goal at the Mission is that all individuals feel valued and supported during their stay. Thank you, Laura and Scott, for helping communicate this message!