Our Dear Friends,
We have been so uplifted by our experiences with Wilson Family Charity this year. It has been a LOT of work, but such a blessing to work beside our friends and neighbors in serving others. We are so looking forward to meeting with 85 incredible people who have volunteered to work beside our family this Saturday at Feed My Starving Children.
Though I would not say that our little charity will be over after this event, I will say that we need a season to step back from these major projects. Rather than coordinating these types of events, we'll simply participate in events organized by others.
There is so much going on in our personal lives that I could not have foreseen at the beginning of the year. We are facing some challenges that need our attention, and children who need attention and love at this time to reassure them. We will still provide service, but in smaller and more simple ways. For a season.
I still have big plans in mind. I do want to start posts each week highlighting charity work and those doing it, and including how-to's for those who want to do more but aren't sure how to proceed. I want to coordinate more events, and spread the joy of service to as many people as I can. I want to encourage people everywhere to be the difference they want to see in the world.
And I know the day will come that the time will be right to press forward in these endeavors once again.
In the meantime I offer my heartfelt thanks and appreciation to all who have made a difference in the lives of people who needed you. I thank you for supporting us in our efforts to do good. I hope and pray that you will continue to find opportunities to serve. (I know you will.) And I wish you the best in all you do.
With much love,
Kristin Wilson and family
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Friday, November 4, 2011
Deadline is here! Register now.
Hello Friends,
Just a friendly reminder to please register now for Feed My Starving Children with Wilson Family Charity on November 12th, 2-4 PM. We still have about 35 open spots. We would absolutely LOVE to know that we filled them all with volunteers, but if we cannot, we will need to release our remaining spots this weekend so that others can hopefully fill in.
If you can make the sacrifice to be there, we guarantee you:
1. a fabulous experience,
2. a great feeling knowing you've made a positive impact in the world, and
3. a special homebaked bribe (and the Wilsons are known for our mad baking skills).
You can reply to this post, send an email to wilsonfamilycharity@gmail.com, or go online to volunteer.fmsc.org and use join code 131394.
Hope to see you next week at FMSC!
Best,
Dave, Kristin, Kate, Emma, Anne, Tommy, and Lucy Wilson
PS Remember, we will be doing our best to cover costs of the food we pack...meaning, if you come and are able to afford it, please bring donations! And if you cannot attend but have the means to donate, please do! Find a donation flyer here, donate online here, or learn more on the general website for Feed My Starving Children here. Consider posting a request for donations to your facebook page, or sending an email to friends or family. Donations are tax-deductible. If you don't mind keeping track of any money you bring in and letting me know, I will be able to total it up and see if we can make the goal of covering costs.
Just a friendly reminder to please register now for Feed My Starving Children with Wilson Family Charity on November 12th, 2-4 PM. We still have about 35 open spots. We would absolutely LOVE to know that we filled them all with volunteers, but if we cannot, we will need to release our remaining spots this weekend so that others can hopefully fill in.
If you can make the sacrifice to be there, we guarantee you:
1. a fabulous experience,
2. a great feeling knowing you've made a positive impact in the world, and
3. a special homebaked bribe (and the Wilsons are known for our mad baking skills).
You can reply to this post, send an email to wilsonfamilycharity@gmail.com, or go online to volunteer.fmsc.org and use join code 131394.
Hope to see you next week at FMSC!
Best,
Dave, Kristin, Kate, Emma, Anne, Tommy, and Lucy Wilson
PS Remember, we will be doing our best to cover costs of the food we pack...meaning, if you come and are able to afford it, please bring donations! And if you cannot attend but have the means to donate, please do! Find a donation flyer here, donate online here, or learn more on the general website for Feed My Starving Children here. Consider posting a request for donations to your facebook page, or sending an email to friends or family. Donations are tax-deductible. If you don't mind keeping track of any money you bring in and letting me know, I will be able to total it up and see if we can make the goal of covering costs.
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Register ASAP!
The latest email:
Hello again friends,
Just a friendly reminder to register ASAP for Feed My Starving Children on November 12th.
We have many spots left, surprising after the number of people who have previously expressed interest. We will put up a few fliers around town this weekend and accept registration until Saturday, November 5th, or until all spots are filled, whichever comes first. If we have any open spots after November 5th we will release those for the public.
Feel free to pass this on to any friends or family. And as we've recently learned that each volunteer packs approximately $52 worth of food in one session, know that any donations you can make or solicit would be much appreciated on behalf of this fabulous organization which helps children across the globe.
Best,
The Wilsons
PS Here are the details from the previous email in case you missed it:
The mission of Feed My Starving Children is "Feeding God’s Starving Children Hungry in Body and Spirit." FMSC brings volunteers into their facility to pack specially formulated food for hungry children all over the world. It is such an inspiring and fun experience to be there, and to feel a part of something so good. My children have so enjoyed their experiences with uplifting music, good hard work, and the satisfaction of knowing they are helping someone in need. From the history on the FMSC website I'm so grateful to learn that this organization is growing: "In 2003 FMSC produced 3 million meals with one packing site and 17,000 volunteers. By 2010 FMSC produced over 124 million meals with 6 permanent packing sites, and a nationwide MobilePackTM program, and more than 515,000 volunteers." Volunteers are critical, and here is your chance to be one!
Wilson Family Charity has reserved all 90 spots for Saturday, November 12th from 2-4 PM at 555 Exchange Court, Aurora. Due to age requirements (see guidelines below), we will fill 5 spots with Wilsons. The first 85 of you to contact me and reserve your spots can secure the rest. Feel free to pass this message on to others, and invite your friends to come, while adhering to the child-adult ratios:
Grade 10-12: 5 students to 1 adult
Grade 7-9: 4 students to 1 adult
Grade 3-6: 3 students to 1 adult
Grade K-2: 1 student to 1 adult
In addition, we will be doing our best to cover costs of the food we pack...meaning, if you come and are able to afford it, please bring donations! And if you cannot attend but have the means to donate, please do! Find a donation flyer here: http://www.fmsc.org/document.doc?id=17, donate online here: https://www.fmsc.org/sslpage.aspx?pid=235 and or learn more on the general website for Feed My Starving Children here: http://www.fmsc.org/ Consider posting a request for donations to your facebook page, or sending an email to friends or family. Donations are tax-deductible. If you don't mind keeping track of any money you bring in and letting me know, I will be able to total it up and see if we can make the goal of covering costs.
Hello again friends,
Just a friendly reminder to register ASAP for Feed My Starving Children on November 12th.
We have many spots left, surprising after the number of people who have previously expressed interest. We will put up a few fliers around town this weekend and accept registration until Saturday, November 5th, or until all spots are filled, whichever comes first. If we have any open spots after November 5th we will release those for the public.
Feel free to pass this on to any friends or family. And as we've recently learned that each volunteer packs approximately $52 worth of food in one session, know that any donations you can make or solicit would be much appreciated on behalf of this fabulous organization which helps children across the globe.
Best,
The Wilsons
PS Here are the details from the previous email in case you missed it:
The mission of Feed My Starving Children is "Feeding God’s Starving Children Hungry in Body and Spirit." FMSC brings volunteers into their facility to pack specially formulated food for hungry children all over the world. It is such an inspiring and fun experience to be there, and to feel a part of something so good. My children have so enjoyed their experiences with uplifting music, good hard work, and the satisfaction of knowing they are helping someone in need. From the history on the FMSC website I'm so grateful to learn that this organization is growing: "In 2003 FMSC produced 3 million meals with one packing site and 17,000 volunteers. By 2010 FMSC produced over 124 million meals with 6 permanent packing sites, and a nationwide MobilePackTM program, and more than 515,000 volunteers." Volunteers are critical, and here is your chance to be one!
Wilson Family Charity has reserved all 90 spots for Saturday, November 12th from 2-4 PM at 555 Exchange Court, Aurora. Due to age requirements (see guidelines below), we will fill 5 spots with Wilsons. The first 85 of you to contact me and reserve your spots can secure the rest. Feel free to pass this message on to others, and invite your friends to come, while adhering to the child-adult ratios:
Grade 10-12: 5 students to 1 adult
Grade 7-9: 4 students to 1 adult
Grade 3-6: 3 students to 1 adult
Grade K-2: 1 student to 1 adult
In addition, we will be doing our best to cover costs of the food we pack...meaning, if you come and are able to afford it, please bring donations! And if you cannot attend but have the means to donate, please do! Find a donation flyer here: http://www.fmsc.org/document.doc?id=17, donate online here: https://www.fmsc.org/sslpage.aspx?pid=235 and or learn more on the general website for Feed My Starving Children here: http://www.fmsc.org/ Consider posting a request for donations to your facebook page, or sending an email to friends or family. Donations are tax-deductible. If you don't mind keeping track of any money you bring in and letting me know, I will be able to total it up and see if we can make the goal of covering costs.
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Feed My Starving Children: November 12th from 2-4 PM
Hello Friends,
In just over three weeks Wilson Family Charity will be hosting a session over at the remarkable Feed My Starving Children in Aurora. I know many of you are already familiar with this organization and will make the effort to join us. If you have never been and can make time for it, PLEASE come. You will be so glad that you did.
The mission of Feed My Starving Children is "Feeding God’s Starving Children Hungry in Body and Spirit." FMSC brings volunteers into their facility to pack specially formulated food for hungry children all over the world. It is such an inspiring and fun experience to be there, and to feel a part of something so good. My children have so enjoyed their experiences with uplifting music, good hard work, and the satisfaction of knowing they are helping someone in need. From the history on the FMSC website I'm so grateful to learn that this organization is growing: "In 2003 FMSC produced 3 million meals with one packing site and 17,000 volunteers. By 2010 FMSC produced over 124 million meals with 6 permanent packing sites, and a nationwide MobilePackTM program, and more than 515,000 volunteers." Volunteers are critical, and here is your chance to be one!
Wilson Family Charity has reserved all 90 spots for Saturday, November 12th from 2-4 PM at 555 Exchange Court, Aurora. Due to age requirements (see guidelines below), we will fill 5 spots with Wilsons. The first 85 of you to contact me and reserve your spots can secure the rest. Feel free to pass this message on to others, and invite your friends to come, while adhering to the child-adult ratios:
Grade 10-12: 5 students to 1 adult
Grade 7-9: 4 students to 1 adult
Grade 3-6: 3 students to 1 adult
Grade K-2: 1 student to 1 adult
In addition, we will be doing our best to cover costs of the food we pack...meaning, if you come and are able to afford it, please bring donations! And if you cannot attend but have the means to donate, please do! Find a donation flyer here: http://www.fmsc.org/document.doc?id=17, donate online here: https://www.fmsc.org/sslpage.aspx?pid=235 and or learn more on the general website for Feed My Starving Children here: http://www.fmsc.org/ Consider posting a request for donations to your facebook page, or sending an email to friends or family. Donations are tax-deductible. If you don't mind keeping track of any money you bring in and letting me know, I will be able to total it up and see if we can make the goal of covering costs.
November is a great month to give thanks, and what better way to give thanks than to share of our time and abundance?
Best,
The Wilsons
In just over three weeks Wilson Family Charity will be hosting a session over at the remarkable Feed My Starving Children in Aurora. I know many of you are already familiar with this organization and will make the effort to join us. If you have never been and can make time for it, PLEASE come. You will be so glad that you did.
The mission of Feed My Starving Children is "Feeding God’s Starving Children Hungry in Body and Spirit." FMSC brings volunteers into their facility to pack specially formulated food for hungry children all over the world. It is such an inspiring and fun experience to be there, and to feel a part of something so good. My children have so enjoyed their experiences with uplifting music, good hard work, and the satisfaction of knowing they are helping someone in need. From the history on the FMSC website I'm so grateful to learn that this organization is growing: "In 2003 FMSC produced 3 million meals with one packing site and 17,000 volunteers. By 2010 FMSC produced over 124 million meals with 6 permanent packing sites, and a nationwide MobilePackTM program, and more than 515,000 volunteers." Volunteers are critical, and here is your chance to be one!
Wilson Family Charity has reserved all 90 spots for Saturday, November 12th from 2-4 PM at 555 Exchange Court, Aurora. Due to age requirements (see guidelines below), we will fill 5 spots with Wilsons. The first 85 of you to contact me and reserve your spots can secure the rest. Feel free to pass this message on to others, and invite your friends to come, while adhering to the child-adult ratios:
Grade 10-12: 5 students to 1 adult
Grade 7-9: 4 students to 1 adult
Grade 3-6: 3 students to 1 adult
Grade K-2: 1 student to 1 adult
In addition, we will be doing our best to cover costs of the food we pack...meaning, if you come and are able to afford it, please bring donations! And if you cannot attend but have the means to donate, please do! Find a donation flyer here: http://www.fmsc.org/document.doc?id=17, donate online here: https://www.fmsc.org/sslpage.aspx?pid=235 and or learn more on the general website for Feed My Starving Children here: http://www.fmsc.org/ Consider posting a request for donations to your facebook page, or sending an email to friends or family. Donations are tax-deductible. If you don't mind keeping track of any money you bring in and letting me know, I will be able to total it up and see if we can make the goal of covering costs.
November is a great month to give thanks, and what better way to give thanks than to share of our time and abundance?
Best,
The Wilsons
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
One more week!
Hello Friends,
Hope this finds you all well! Though my lofty goals for keeping a running tab on donations did not materialize through a vacation, the start of school and activities, houseguests, and a new puppy, we have still been collecting! Today I met with a group of wonderful 8-11 year old girls to put together kits from what we have so far.
We are 29 100-page notebooks shy of the fillings for 47 completed kits, with a start on about 5-10 more. We have quite a few standard pencils and scissors, but could use a few more rulers, pencil sharpeners, 12-packs of colored pencils, and erasers, along with more notebooks. Of course, we'll still take anything you have already collected as any surplus and/or items not found on the list that we receive will be donated to the Office Max school supplies drive.
The notebook requirement calls for 450 pages in no more than 6 notebooks. We've found that generally speaking, the best value is found by grouping 5 70-page notebooks (I found them for a quarter each at Target today) with 1 100-page or 120-page notebook, but other combinations are acceptable (ie 3 80-page notebooks with 3 70-page notebooks or 3 150-page notebooks).
We have three completed sewn bags, with a commitment for about 20 more. If anyone knows how to sew and would like to help we would love it! I also have a sewing machine I can lend out (as I don't actually know how to sew).
Also, for the last week (beginning Thursday, September 8th) there will be an additional collection bin located through the front doors of Steeple Run Elementary School across from the "I Forgot" bins, along with the bin in front of my home.
Just a reminder that the kits we are putting together include the following:
• 4 pencils (unsharpened)
• 1 box pre-sharpened or unsharpened assorted colored pencils
(approx. 7” long, approx. 12 pencils/box)
• 1 pencil sharpener
• 1 rubber pencil eraser (approx 1" x 2")
• 1 straight edge ruler - 12 inches, with metric
• 1 pair of blunt-nosed scissors (metal blades)
• Glued or spiral bound notebooks or letter size legal pads, with lined sheets. Include enough notebooks/pads to total approximately 450 sheets (Please do not include more than 6 notebooks/pads). Sheet sizes 8 1/2" x 11", 8" x 10 1/2", 8 1/2" x 11 3/4" are acceptable.
Thanks for your help!
The Wilsons
PS Mark your calendar for Feed My Starving Children on Saturday, November 12th from 2-4 PM.
Hope this finds you all well! Though my lofty goals for keeping a running tab on donations did not materialize through a vacation, the start of school and activities, houseguests, and a new puppy, we have still been collecting! Today I met with a group of wonderful 8-11 year old girls to put together kits from what we have so far.
We are 29 100-page notebooks shy of the fillings for 47 completed kits, with a start on about 5-10 more. We have quite a few standard pencils and scissors, but could use a few more rulers, pencil sharpeners, 12-packs of colored pencils, and erasers, along with more notebooks. Of course, we'll still take anything you have already collected as any surplus and/or items not found on the list that we receive will be donated to the Office Max school supplies drive.
The notebook requirement calls for 450 pages in no more than 6 notebooks. We've found that generally speaking, the best value is found by grouping 5 70-page notebooks (I found them for a quarter each at Target today) with 1 100-page or 120-page notebook, but other combinations are acceptable (ie 3 80-page notebooks with 3 70-page notebooks or 3 150-page notebooks).
We have three completed sewn bags, with a commitment for about 20 more. If anyone knows how to sew and would like to help we would love it! I also have a sewing machine I can lend out (as I don't actually know how to sew).
Also, for the last week (beginning Thursday, September 8th) there will be an additional collection bin located through the front doors of Steeple Run Elementary School across from the "I Forgot" bins, along with the bin in front of my home.
Just a reminder that the kits we are putting together include the following:
• 4 pencils (unsharpened)
• 1 box pre-sharpened or unsharpened assorted colored pencils
(approx. 7” long, approx. 12 pencils/box)
• 1 pencil sharpener
• 1 rubber pencil eraser (approx 1" x 2")
• 1 straight edge ruler - 12 inches, with metric
• 1 pair of blunt-nosed scissors (metal blades)
• Glued or spiral bound notebooks or letter size legal pads, with lined sheets. Include enough notebooks/pads to total approximately 450 sheets (Please do not include more than 6 notebooks/pads). Sheet sizes 8 1/2" x 11", 8" x 10 1/2", 8 1/2" x 11 3/4" are acceptable.
Thanks for your help!
The Wilsons
PS Mark your calendar for Feed My Starving Children on Saturday, November 12th from 2-4 PM.
Thursday, August 25, 2011
So much for weekly updates!
With a last hurrah of summer week in Michigan and the start of a new school year weekly updates have just not been practical. However, we are now in the swing of things a little bit better so I should be on top of things from here on out.
I am taking inventory today on what has already been donated. I know there are others who have been collecting but have not yet dropped off their items. (Don't worry as there is plenty of time left.) Thanks for your help!
By the end of the day tomorrow I should have another email out including information about additional drop-off sites and preliminary information regarding Feed My Starving Children in November.
Doesn't it make you feel better to do something which helps someone else?
I am taking inventory today on what has already been donated. I know there are others who have been collecting but have not yet dropped off their items. (Don't worry as there is plenty of time left.) Thanks for your help!
By the end of the day tomorrow I should have another email out including information about additional drop-off sites and preliminary information regarding Feed My Starving Children in November.
Doesn't it make you feel better to do something which helps someone else?
Sunday, July 31, 2011
It's time to collect those school supplies!
This is tonight's email:
Hello Friends!
I'm so sad that it is almost time to go back to school. There is nothing better than summer with all of my children home with me every day.
Back to school means new pencils with perfect erasers and empty notebooks waiting to be filled. While running your regular errands please consider picking up some extra supplies to ensure that children in need can receive proper tools for learning. There are great sales going on at places like Target, Staples, Office Depot, Walgreens, and Walmart.
Just a reminder that kits for LDS Philanthropies include:
School Kit
• 4 pencils (unsharpened)
• 1 box pre-sharpened or unsharpened assorted colored pencils
(approx. 7” long, approx. 12 pencils/box)
• 1 pencil sharpener
• 1 rubber pencil eraser (approx 1" x 2")
• 1 straight edge ruler - 12 inches, with metric
• 1 pair of blunt-nosed scissors (metal blades)
• Glued or spiral bound notebooks or letter size legal pads, with lined sheets. Include enough notebooks/pads to total approximately 450 sheets (Please do not include more than 6 notebooks/pads). Sheet sizes 8 1/2" x 11", 8" x 10 1/2", 8 1/2" x 11 3/4" are acceptable.
• 1 durable cloth bag made of heavy fabric (See cloth bag guidelines below)
Please donate according to the list, or consider a donation of money towards completing partial kits or time to sew bags and assemble the kits.
There will be a bin on my porch from tomorrow until September 15th. You do not need to donate full kits. You may choose to purchase just one item. I will keep a running tally on our site (wilsonfamilycharity.blogspot.com) of what has been donated. I'll also send emails each week including those totals.
Thanks for your help in this project!
Warmly,
The Wilson Family
PS Please contact me if you would like to be removed from this list, or if you have a friend that would like to be added to the email list.
Hello Friends!
I'm so sad that it is almost time to go back to school. There is nothing better than summer with all of my children home with me every day.
Back to school means new pencils with perfect erasers and empty notebooks waiting to be filled. While running your regular errands please consider picking up some extra supplies to ensure that children in need can receive proper tools for learning. There are great sales going on at places like Target, Staples, Office Depot, Walgreens, and Walmart.
Just a reminder that kits for LDS Philanthropies include:
School Kit
• 4 pencils (unsharpened)
• 1 box pre-sharpened or unsharpened assorted colored pencils
(approx. 7” long, approx. 12 pencils/box)
• 1 pencil sharpener
• 1 rubber pencil eraser (approx 1" x 2")
• 1 straight edge ruler - 12 inches, with metric
• 1 pair of blunt-nosed scissors (metal blades)
• Glued or spiral bound notebooks or letter size legal pads, with lined sheets. Include enough notebooks/pads to total approximately 450 sheets (Please do not include more than 6 notebooks/pads). Sheet sizes 8 1/2" x 11", 8" x 10 1/2", 8 1/2" x 11 3/4" are acceptable.
• 1 durable cloth bag made of heavy fabric (See cloth bag guidelines below)
Please donate according to the list, or consider a donation of money towards completing partial kits or time to sew bags and assemble the kits.
There will be a bin on my porch from tomorrow until September 15th. You do not need to donate full kits. You may choose to purchase just one item. I will keep a running tally on our site (wilsonfamilycharity.blogspot.com) of what has been donated. I'll also send emails each week including those totals.
Thanks for your help in this project!
Warmly,
The Wilson Family
PS Please contact me if you would like to be removed from this list, or if you have a friend that would like to be added to the email list.
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
School Supplies Drive!!!
What better time to do a school supplies drive than at back to school sales time!
We are pleased to announce the Wilson Family Charity School Supplies Drive, which will run from August 1-September 15. We will be collecting both goods and monetary donations to put together kits for LDS Philanthropies. My favorite thing about LDS Philanthropies is that 100% of all donations are used for the causes for which they have been donated. I am not aware of any other organization that is able to operate in this manner. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints covers all administrative costs so that LDS Philanthropies can use your whole donation for those in need.
In regards to giving humanitarian aid, LDS Philanthropies offers help to those in need without regard for religion, gender, race, or any other type of diversity.
School kits are often sent to both schools and orphanages and on occasion are sent to disaster areas.
We will need to donate kits according to the guidelines, so please only donate items that are actually on the list, or money. We will use all monetary donations to help cover the cost of fabric or velcro for the bags and/or for school supplies we are short on to make full kits.
And if you know how to sew and would be willing to help us put the bags together we would love it!!! (I do have a sewing machine though I do not know much about using it yet.)
School Kit
• 4 pencils (unsharpened)
• 1 box pre-sharpened or unsharpened assorted colored pencils
(approx. 7” long, approx. 12 pencils/box)
• 1 pencil sharpener
• 1 rubber pencil eraser (approx 1" x 2")
• 1 straight edge ruler - 12 inches, with metric
• 1 pair of blunt-nosed scissors (metal blades)
• Glued or spiral bound notebooks or letter size legal pads, with lined sheets. Include enough notebooks/pads to total approximately 450 sheets (Please do not include more than 6 notebooks/pads). Sheet sizes 8 1/2" x 11", 8" x 10 1/2", 8 1/2" x 11 3/4" are acceptable.
• 1 durable cloth bag made of heavy fabric (See cloth bag guidelines below)
Place items inside the cloth bag.
Cloth Bag (for School Kit)• Cut two pieces of fabric for bag 14"x 18", Cut 2 handles 24"x 3.5" (1.5" webbing may be substituted).
• Serge or zigzag all edges of both pieces of bag fabric.
• Put right sides of bag fabric together. Starting at the top of the side seam,(side seam = 18" length), sew around 3 sides of bag (2 long sides, 1 short side). Make sure to backstitch.
Handles
• Zig-zag or serge one long side of each handle.
• With right side out, fold over raw edge and overlap serged edge.
• Stitch lengthwise down center of handle.
• Pin or secure handle in place. Repeat with the other end of the handle on the same side of the bag.
• Repeat on other side of bag.
• After handles are secure, stitch hem of bag, including handles around entire hem.
• Reinforce stitching on handles.
• Place a 3” strip of velcro on inside of bag between handle straps. Sew in place.
Beginning August 1 there will be a bin in front of our home for collections. The address will go out by email so please email wilsonfamilycharity@gmail.com if you need it. After school begins, there will be a bin in the foyer of Steeple Run Elementary School. Also, there is one business location that may allow us to set up a bin. More information to follow.
Thanks in advance for your help! We are so blessed and grateful for the opportunity to help others have tools for learning.
We are pleased to announce the Wilson Family Charity School Supplies Drive, which will run from August 1-September 15. We will be collecting both goods and monetary donations to put together kits for LDS Philanthropies. My favorite thing about LDS Philanthropies is that 100% of all donations are used for the causes for which they have been donated. I am not aware of any other organization that is able to operate in this manner. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints covers all administrative costs so that LDS Philanthropies can use your whole donation for those in need.
In regards to giving humanitarian aid, LDS Philanthropies offers help to those in need without regard for religion, gender, race, or any other type of diversity.
School kits are often sent to both schools and orphanages and on occasion are sent to disaster areas.
We will need to donate kits according to the guidelines, so please only donate items that are actually on the list, or money. We will use all monetary donations to help cover the cost of fabric or velcro for the bags and/or for school supplies we are short on to make full kits.
And if you know how to sew and would be willing to help us put the bags together we would love it!!! (I do have a sewing machine though I do not know much about using it yet.)
School Kit
• 4 pencils (unsharpened)
• 1 box pre-sharpened or unsharpened assorted colored pencils
(approx. 7” long, approx. 12 pencils/box)
• 1 pencil sharpener
• 1 rubber pencil eraser (approx 1" x 2")
• 1 straight edge ruler - 12 inches, with metric
• 1 pair of blunt-nosed scissors (metal blades)
• Glued or spiral bound notebooks or letter size legal pads, with lined sheets. Include enough notebooks/pads to total approximately 450 sheets (Please do not include more than 6 notebooks/pads). Sheet sizes 8 1/2" x 11", 8" x 10 1/2", 8 1/2" x 11 3/4" are acceptable.
• 1 durable cloth bag made of heavy fabric (See cloth bag guidelines below)
Place items inside the cloth bag.
Cloth Bag (for School Kit)• Cut two pieces of fabric for bag 14"x 18", Cut 2 handles 24"x 3.5" (1.5" webbing may be substituted).
• Serge or zigzag all edges of both pieces of bag fabric.
• Put right sides of bag fabric together. Starting at the top of the side seam,(side seam = 18" length), sew around 3 sides of bag (2 long sides, 1 short side). Make sure to backstitch.
Handles
• Zig-zag or serge one long side of each handle.
• With right side out, fold over raw edge and overlap serged edge.
• Stitch lengthwise down center of handle.
• Pin or secure handle in place. Repeat with the other end of the handle on the same side of the bag.
• Repeat on other side of bag.
• After handles are secure, stitch hem of bag, including handles around entire hem.
• Reinforce stitching on handles.
• Place a 3” strip of velcro on inside of bag between handle straps. Sew in place.
Beginning August 1 there will be a bin in front of our home for collections. The address will go out by email so please email wilsonfamilycharity@gmail.com if you need it. After school begins, there will be a bin in the foyer of Steeple Run Elementary School. Also, there is one business location that may allow us to set up a bin. More information to follow.
Thanks in advance for your help! We are so blessed and grateful for the opportunity to help others have tools for learning.
Sunday, May 8, 2011
Bake sale success by the numbers, and we made the local news!
I have more pictures and stories to tell about the bake sale, but they will have to wait.
In the meantime, this is the email I sent out today:
Dear Friends,
Truly the success of such an event as we had this weekend cannot be measured simply by the numbers. Many of you were touched by the spirit of giving, as were some of those we sold to. I could feel the energy and excitement in our neighborhood and community as so many people contributed by baking, donating, transporting, working, and purchasing. And I am thrilled to think of the little mouths that will be fed as a result of this group effort.
But I have to admit that the numbers themselves are pretty darn awesome:
And we were featured on the local news!
What's next? At the end of the month we will start a series of blog posts highlighting service. Watch for:
We would LOVE to have your input on these posts, so if you have something to share that would fit please send it in. Know of a friend or organization that does a lot of good? Do you have a positive experience with service that you'd like to share? I'm hoping for plenty of guest posts, so please send in your thoughts!
Our next big project will be a drive for school supplies. Watch for an email with details about the specific items needed for the school supply kits. The drive will run from July 15th-September 1st, focused intentionally on the time of year when school supplies are on sale.
Thank you so much to all of you who contributed with goods, time, donations, and even your thoughts and prayers. We feel so blessed to have been able to participate with you, and thankful for your help and for the cooperating weather.
Have a fabulous week!
Dave, Kristin, and the kids
In the meantime, this is the email I sent out today:
Dear Friends,
Truly the success of such an event as we had this weekend cannot be measured simply by the numbers. Many of you were touched by the spirit of giving, as were some of those we sold to. I could feel the energy and excitement in our neighborhood and community as so many people contributed by baking, donating, transporting, working, and purchasing. And I am thrilled to think of the little mouths that will be fed as a result of this group effort.
But I have to admit that the numbers themselves are pretty darn awesome:
- 35 families or businesses contributed goods or equipment (tables, baskets, etc)
- 9 families helped transport goods
- 8 families helped to work the sale (including a number of super-cute kids)
- Walgreens experienced an 11% increase in sales from Friday before Mother's Day 2010 to this past Friday and invited us to hold a bake sale there anytime!
- Friday we raised $715.42
- Saturday we raised $1059.08 (including $232 for the Silent Auction table, average of $29 per item)
- Average sales per hour: $147.88
- Online donations: $380
- Grand total: $2154.50 (With a few others who have told me they will be donating online but have not yet done so.)
And we were featured on the local news!
What's next? At the end of the month we will start a series of blog posts highlighting service. Watch for:
- Tuesday Tips, including tips on service...how to's regarding involving kids, working it into your schedule, deciding where to serve, hosting your own bake sale or other fundraiser, etc, etc,
- Friday Feature, including spotlights on individuals, families, and organizations that have given significant service, and
- Sunday Stories, including heartwarming stories about those who have been blessed by giving or receiving service.
We would LOVE to have your input on these posts, so if you have something to share that would fit please send it in. Know of a friend or organization that does a lot of good? Do you have a positive experience with service that you'd like to share? I'm hoping for plenty of guest posts, so please send in your thoughts!
Our next big project will be a drive for school supplies. Watch for an email with details about the specific items needed for the school supply kits. The drive will run from July 15th-September 1st, focused intentionally on the time of year when school supplies are on sale.
Thank you so much to all of you who contributed with goods, time, donations, and even your thoughts and prayers. We feel so blessed to have been able to participate with you, and thankful for your help and for the cooperating weather.
Have a fabulous week!
Dave, Kristin, and the kids
Friday, May 6, 2011
Just a taste of the deliciousness...
These are the happy faces who will assist at the sale. For obvious reasons, they will not be there the whole time. Aside from their darlingness, you will find:
chocolate dipped pretzels
created with help from my great-grandmother's double boiler
pies
cookies, brownies
cupcakes
(Almost all of those shown were decorated by the older children and one of their friends. They did a great job and they DID wash their hands before helping.)
rice krispie treats and more cookies
cakes
AND more!!
Tallest to shortest our crew wishes to thank you for your donations online, your thoughts and prayers, your donated baked goods, and the many goodies we know you'll purchase in just a few short hours. Your efforts are noticed and appreciated.
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Such a bounty
Our home is full of the fruits of the labors of people who care about making a difference.
I feel blessed to be a part of it.
Due to a series of unplanned complications (read: my normal life) I am only now at 1 AM starting the chocolate dipped pretzels. I could just go to bed, but I expect these to be a big seller and I'm not wimping out now!
I am so sad to have forgotten to take photos of the cute kids decorating extra special cupcakes this afternoon. They are works of art. I promise pictures by Saturday, but now I must be back to work.
I feel blessed to be a part of it.
Due to a series of unplanned complications (read: my normal life) I am only now at 1 AM starting the chocolate dipped pretzels. I could just go to bed, but I expect these to be a big seller and I'm not wimping out now!
I am so sad to have forgotten to take photos of the cute kids decorating extra special cupcakes this afternoon. They are works of art. I promise pictures by Saturday, but now I must be back to work.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Freezer Magic
Baking has begun at the Wilson home! We plan to produce:
50-100 store-bought-mix-and-can-of-frosting cupcakes
50-100 higher-end cupcakes with premier mix and homemade delicious buttercream frosting
4-6 fancy-schmancy cakes
6 pans of brownies
8 small loaves of banana bread and
25+ bags of delicious chocolate-covered gourmet pretzels (packaged in darling little tins purchased for 50 cents a piece at the Target dollar spot)
How will we make it work? Well, other than giving up some sleep, such ambition will be made possible through the magic of our freezer.
Let's say you want to help us out. You know next week is busy for you, but you would have time Saturday or Sunday afternoon...how do you manage?
Make either cakes, cupcakes, brownies, muffins, or breads. Let them cool. Wrap in plastic wrap and then place either in a ziploc bag or wrap with foil and stick it in the freezer until drop-off time. If it is an item you would frost, please do not do so until after removing it from the freezer.
Also, you can make cookie dough in advance, freeze it, and have it ready to bake quickly at the last minute when you may be more pressed for time.
Things to remember:
1. The Wilson Family Great American Bake Sale will be held Friday May 6th from 2-7 PM, and Saturday May 7th from 9 AM-4 PM at the Steeple Run Walgreens.
2. Drop-off for donations is Friday May 6th from 9 AM-noon at my house, but PLEASE contact me for other arrangements if this will not work for you. I will work with your schedule.
3. Tax-deductible online donations are accepted on our team page which can be accessed through the right sidebar of our site, at wilsonfamilycharity.blogspot.com
4. Please spread the word. You can find us on facebook, like us, and share us with your friends: https://www.facebook.com/wilsonfamilycharity
5. I still have flyers if you need one for your workplace breakroom, your church, or any where else you can think of.
6. We could use more volunteers to work the sale. Watch for our volunteer email coming out tomorrow.
Thanks so much to all of you willing to help in any way, from baking, to spreading the word, working the sale, purchasing our goods, and praying for the success of this event. I still can scarcely believe that in a land of plenty, with so many charity programs and governement programs at work that more than 17 million kids in America are at risk of hunger. That’s nearly 1 in 4. We are so blessed and look forward to working with you to do our part to share of our abundance.
Warmly,
Dave, Kristin, and children
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Bake Sale Flyer
Please let you know if you have a good place to post one, such as the lunchroom at work or at a local business. I can either email you the flyer and you can print it, or I can get a printed copy to you.
Are you concerned about how to package your bake sale goodies?
Hello again Friends,
I have heard back from some of you with concerns regarding how to package some of your goodies. I have my own concerns about some of my items, mainly the smashable frosting-type ones. I also am thinking ahead to how to load the Suburban en route to Walgreens while protecting the goods as much as possible.
I have done a little searching online for bakery boxes and will make an order tonight or tomorrow. I have looked primarily at these boxes for items like frosted brownies: http://www.brpboxshop.com/2105.html and these designed for 2 cupcakes: http://www.brpboxshop.com/2100.html A colorful ribbon around the box will finish them off.
I think items like bread, unfrosted brownies, and rice krispie treats will be fabulous in simple saran wrap, and cookies will do well bagged or wrapped individually. I have also considered these single cupcake boxes: http://www.brpboxshop.com/2100.html to be used either for single cupakes or for items like sweet rolls or cinnamon rolls, if there are enough people making those to warrant an order.
If you are planning on an item that would do well in these boxes will you please let me know? And let me know how many you will use and of what kind? I would prefer to get as close to the right number we will use as possible. Also, if there is another size that would be better for you please let me know and we'll see if others would also use that type.
If you want to make a donation to cover the boxes you will use for your goods, that would be great, but if you do not want to or cannot, I am fully willing to cover the costs. I think the little bit of extra on packaging will pay for itself with increased sales. These will be Mother's Day ready and pair so nicely with a Walgreens card.
Thanks!
Kristin
PS Most of you did not sign up for this email list, but were chosen because you are a friend or family to ours. If you do not wish to receive future emails please let me know and I will remove you from this list. Alternatively, if you know of someone who would like to be added please let me know as well.
I have heard back from some of you with concerns regarding how to package some of your goodies. I have my own concerns about some of my items, mainly the smashable frosting-type ones. I also am thinking ahead to how to load the Suburban en route to Walgreens while protecting the goods as much as possible.
I have done a little searching online for bakery boxes and will make an order tonight or tomorrow. I have looked primarily at these boxes for items like frosted brownies: http://www.brpboxshop.com/2105.html and these designed for 2 cupcakes: http://www.brpboxshop.com/2100.html A colorful ribbon around the box will finish them off.
I think items like bread, unfrosted brownies, and rice krispie treats will be fabulous in simple saran wrap, and cookies will do well bagged or wrapped individually. I have also considered these single cupcake boxes: http://www.brpboxshop.com/2100.html to be used either for single cupakes or for items like sweet rolls or cinnamon rolls, if there are enough people making those to warrant an order.
If you are planning on an item that would do well in these boxes will you please let me know? And let me know how many you will use and of what kind? I would prefer to get as close to the right number we will use as possible. Also, if there is another size that would be better for you please let me know and we'll see if others would also use that type.
If you want to make a donation to cover the boxes you will use for your goods, that would be great, but if you do not want to or cannot, I am fully willing to cover the costs. I think the little bit of extra on packaging will pay for itself with increased sales. These will be Mother's Day ready and pair so nicely with a Walgreens card.
Thanks!
Kristin
PS Most of you did not sign up for this email list, but were chosen because you are a friend or family to ours. If you do not wish to receive future emails please let me know and I will remove you from this list. Alternatively, if you know of someone who would like to be added please let me know as well.
Monday, April 18, 2011
Practice makes perfect!
Yesterday we got busy in the kitchen:
*birthday cupcakes for a cute girl
in my Sunday School class
*cookies for friends my husband was visiting
*brownies for my daughter's Sunday School class
(I wish I'd taken pictures of all of those!)
And these beauties to thank some dear friends for their recent service to our family.
(I wish my photos did them justice!)
We were so busy dipping and sampling chocolates that dinner fell to the wayside. Instead, the children enjoyed chocolate dipped bananas and fresh berries and we called it a day. After a very late lunch it was the best way to go.
(Don't worry...we don't eat like this every night.)
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Bake sale places, dates, and times
Hello Friends,
I received a few responses from people who missed our first email and wondered where and when the bake sale would be held. I have also had questions about drop-off. Drop-off will be at my home from 9AM-noon on Friday May 6th. If for some reason that time will not work for you but you would like to donate, please contact me to arrange an alternative solution.
I do post all volunteer letters to the website at http://wilsonfamilycharity.blogspot.com/ for your reference.
Please keep passing the word along!
Thanks so much,
Kristin
PS Here is the information about the bake sale from the first email:
May 6th-7th: Wilson Family Charity Great American Bake Sale held at the Steeple Run Walgreens (6S235 Steeple Run Drive, Naperville, Illinois 60540), 2-7 PM Friday, and 9-4 PM Saturday
• Our children are so blessed, yet nearly 1 in 4 kids in America faces hunger. Share our Strength is working to change that. Read more about it here: http://gabs.strength.org/
• How you can help: spread the word, solicit local businesses for donated goods, bake goods yourself or with your children, work the sale, purchase from the sale, spread the word online (as we will have an online donation page sending calorie-free virtual cupcakes!) and pray for good weather and for those giving and receiving.• All money raised will go directly to Share our Strength to aid them in the work of feeding hungry children in America.
PPS One last suggestion...if you enjoy cake decorating, consider decorating a special cake for our cake silent auction.
I received a few responses from people who missed our first email and wondered where and when the bake sale would be held. I have also had questions about drop-off. Drop-off will be at my home from 9AM-noon on Friday May 6th. If for some reason that time will not work for you but you would like to donate, please contact me to arrange an alternative solution.
I do post all volunteer letters to the website at http://wilsonfamilycharity.blogspot.com/ for your reference.
Please keep passing the word along!
Thanks so much,
Kristin
PS Here is the information about the bake sale from the first email:
May 6th-7th: Wilson Family Charity Great American Bake Sale held at the Steeple Run Walgreens (6S235 Steeple Run Drive, Naperville, Illinois 60540), 2-7 PM Friday, and 9-4 PM Saturday
• Our children are so blessed, yet nearly 1 in 4 kids in America faces hunger. Share our Strength is working to change that. Read more about it here: http://gabs.strength.org/
• How you can help: spread the word, solicit local businesses for donated goods, bake goods yourself or with your children, work the sale, purchase from the sale, spread the word online (as we will have an online donation page sending calorie-free virtual cupcakes!) and pray for good weather and for those giving and receiving.• All money raised will go directly to Share our Strength to aid them in the work of feeding hungry children in America.
PPS One last suggestion...if you enjoy cake decorating, consider decorating a special cake for our cake silent auction.
Friday, April 15, 2011
Woo Hoo!!!
TWO donations came in tonight to our team page! And I have two donation checks which I received for my birthday. Thank you so very much to our donors so far. Enjoy a virtual cupcake!
I just love knowing that others care like we do about children who are hungry. I know how hard it is for me to concentrate when I go too long without food. How is it then for a child with a hungry belly trying to focus and learn at school?
I'm thankful for this opportunity to serve children who need our help through the great work of Share our Strength and I'm thankful for those who serve with us. Small acts from many make a big difference.
I just love knowing that others care like we do about children who are hungry. I know how hard it is for me to concentrate when I go too long without food. How is it then for a child with a hungry belly trying to focus and learn at school?
I'm thankful for this opportunity to serve children who need our help through the great work of Share our Strength and I'm thankful for those who serve with us. Small acts from many make a big difference.
Bake sale details
Just sent the next letter out! In case you missed it, I'm including it here (please email me at wilsonfamilycharity@gmail.com to be added to the list).
Dear Friends,
Only three weeks remain until the Wilson Family Charity Great American Bake Sale! We’re thankful for the responses we’ve received so far, but we need more help.
We are looking for volunteers to work the sale, plus more and more baked goods, and of course...customers!! In addition, if you have a business or know of a business that would like to donate an item for raffle, please let me know. I would be happy to set up a raffle table, along with a silent auction for cakes or higher-end sets of cupcakes.
Donated baked goods can be homemade or store-bought. Our basic price list is as follows:
· Cookies (small) : sets of 2 for $1
· Cookies (large): $1
· Cookies (dozen small): $5
· Brownies (large individual): $2
· Brownies (8 x 8): $6
· Standard cupcakes: $2
· Premium cupcakes: $3
· Muffins: $2
· Bread (small loaf): $4
· Bread (large loaf): $8
· Cake (slice): $4
· Cake (whole): $15 or by silent auction
· Pie (slice): $4
· Pie (whole): $20
· Lemonade: $1 per glass
Please consider packaging for both shelf appeal and ease of sale. If you have made a cake that you would like to sell by the slice, please slice and wrap or box individual slices before donating. Please prepackage cookies, bars, etc so they are ready to sell.
Inexpensive fold-over sandwich bags can be most useful. Simply cut the flap loose, and use for brownies, cookies, or cupcakes using ribbon to tie the top. Hobby Lobby and similar stores carry bags and boxes for baked goods as well.
If you are bringing store bought items, consider adding a ribbon or bow or stickers to the top. If you have items that you know are peanut or gluten or dairy free, please let me know so I can label them as such. Or feel free to label them yourself.
Our list above is not all-inclusive. One of our friends wondered about donating organic homemade granola in 1 quart mason jars. That sounds awesome! If you have healthier or more unique goods to donate we’ll take those too.
I plan to add in some chocolate covered long pretzels and homemade caramels, and maybe homemade chocolate covered peanut butter balls. We will find a price for whatever you bring. I’m sure you all have your own great recipes, but if you’re looking for a new one, consider: http://gabs.strength.org/site/PageServer?pagename=GABS_getinvolved_recipes.
Remember this will be Mother’s Day weekend, so consider creating goods that would pair nicely with a Walgreens greetings card for all of those last minute shoppers.
If you cannot participate but would still be willing to donate, please visit our team page at http://join.strength.org/site/TR/CEM/General?team_id=106258&pg=team&fr_id=1120
If there are any youth groups, scout troops, etc looking for a service activity, we would love to have them bake for us or even help run the sale.
And please pass the word along through facebook, email, word of mouth, twitter, or however you communicate. I also have flyers if you have a place to hang one.
Thanks in advance for all of your help!
Dave and Kristin Wilson and Family
Dear Friends,
Only three weeks remain until the Wilson Family Charity Great American Bake Sale! We’re thankful for the responses we’ve received so far, but we need more help.
We are looking for volunteers to work the sale, plus more and more baked goods, and of course...customers!! In addition, if you have a business or know of a business that would like to donate an item for raffle, please let me know. I would be happy to set up a raffle table, along with a silent auction for cakes or higher-end sets of cupcakes.
Donated baked goods can be homemade or store-bought. Our basic price list is as follows:
· Cookies (small) : sets of 2 for $1
· Cookies (large): $1
· Cookies (dozen small): $5
· Brownies (large individual): $2
· Brownies (8 x 8): $6
· Standard cupcakes: $2
· Premium cupcakes: $3
· Muffins: $2
· Bread (small loaf): $4
· Bread (large loaf): $8
· Cake (slice): $4
· Cake (whole): $15 or by silent auction
· Pie (slice): $4
· Pie (whole): $20
· Lemonade: $1 per glass
Please consider packaging for both shelf appeal and ease of sale. If you have made a cake that you would like to sell by the slice, please slice and wrap or box individual slices before donating. Please prepackage cookies, bars, etc so they are ready to sell.
Inexpensive fold-over sandwich bags can be most useful. Simply cut the flap loose, and use for brownies, cookies, or cupcakes using ribbon to tie the top. Hobby Lobby and similar stores carry bags and boxes for baked goods as well.
If you are bringing store bought items, consider adding a ribbon or bow or stickers to the top. If you have items that you know are peanut or gluten or dairy free, please let me know so I can label them as such. Or feel free to label them yourself.
Our list above is not all-inclusive. One of our friends wondered about donating organic homemade granola in 1 quart mason jars. That sounds awesome! If you have healthier or more unique goods to donate we’ll take those too.
I plan to add in some chocolate covered long pretzels and homemade caramels, and maybe homemade chocolate covered peanut butter balls. We will find a price for whatever you bring. I’m sure you all have your own great recipes, but if you’re looking for a new one, consider: http://gabs.strength.org/site/PageServer?pagename=GABS_getinvolved_recipes.
Remember this will be Mother’s Day weekend, so consider creating goods that would pair nicely with a Walgreens greetings card for all of those last minute shoppers.
If you cannot participate but would still be willing to donate, please visit our team page at http://join.strength.org/site/TR/CEM/General?team_id=106258&pg=team&fr_id=1120
If there are any youth groups, scout troops, etc looking for a service activity, we would love to have them bake for us or even help run the sale.
And please pass the word along through facebook, email, word of mouth, twitter, or however you communicate. I also have flyers if you have a place to hang one.
Thanks in advance for all of your help!
Dave and Kristin Wilson and Family
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Progress
The last few weeks did not go as planned. I was privileged enough to be able to fly out to CA and be with my Grandpa in his last days and hours. I was holding his hand when he passed away peacefully. And then I returned to CA a few days later for the funeral. He was the greatest of the great and is sorely missed, though we are all uplifted by the thought of him with Grandma, my aunt, his parents, and his seven siblings.
Due to this unexpected travel, the charity had to take a backseat. After an extra week of recovery for myself, the children, and our house, I'm back at it. I'm working on finalizing a charity logo, and making progress on the bake sale. Our team page is operational, and we'd love your donations there. The next volunteer email will go out by Friday, and I'll post a copy here.
I have big plans for this little charity. It may take time to grow into a powerful force for good, but in the meantime, we'll be happy to make a small difference in the lives of a few.
Due to this unexpected travel, the charity had to take a backseat. After an extra week of recovery for myself, the children, and our house, I'm back at it. I'm working on finalizing a charity logo, and making progress on the bake sale. Our team page is operational, and we'd love your donations there. The next volunteer email will go out by Friday, and I'll post a copy here.
I have big plans for this little charity. It may take time to grow into a powerful force for good, but in the meantime, we'll be happy to make a small difference in the lives of a few.
Monday, April 4, 2011
Our first email
My Dear Friends,
We need your help. Our family has embarked on a service adventure, spearheading a series of fantastic charity projects to benefit children. In case you couldn’t tell, I really love children and this year I want my children to serve side by side with Dave and me and our friends and neighbors as we proactively assist some wonderful organizations to serve children in need.
I know many of you already volunteer in a number of ways, and we think that’s awesome. We hope you will have the time and/or money to join with us, and that at the very least, you will spread the word to your friends, sports teams, churches, and to anyone who can help. No volunteers will be turned away, but in order to keep our efforts coordinated, please keep us updated on how you’ve chosen to help.
So what’s on the Wilson Family Charity agenda so far?
May 6th-7th: Wilson Family Charity Great American Bake Sale held at the Steeple Run Walgreens (6S235 Steeple Run Drive, Naperville, Illinois 60540), 2-7 PM Friday, and 9-4 PM Saturday
• Our children are so blessed, yet nearly 1 in 4 kids in America faces hunger. Share our Strength is working to change that. Read more about it here: http://gabs.strength.org/
• How you can help: spread the word, solicit local businesses for donated goods, bake goods yourself or with your children, work the sale, purchase from the sale, spread the word online (as we will have an online donation page sending calorie-free virtual cupcakes!) and pray for good weather and for those giving and receiving.
• All money raised will go directly to Share our Strength to aid them in the work of feeding hungry children in America.
Late summer-early September: Wilson Family Charity School Kits Drive
• Our children have an abundance of the tools needed for learning, yet so many children have a great desire to learn and don’t even own a pencil. LDS Philanthropies collects humanitarian aid supplies and school kits to help those in such a circumstance. See page 5 for school kit guidelines: http://www.ldsphilanthropies.org/humanitarian-services/patterns/service-project-guidelines.pdf
• How you can help: spread the word, purchase school supplies according to the guidelines (we’ve targeted the timeline of back-to-school sales), donate fabric for the bags, help sew the bags, aid in assembling the kits, and pray for those donating and receiving.
• All completed kits will be donated to LDS Philanthropies for distribution around the world, primarily to schools and orphanages and also as part of disaster relief upon occasion. One thing I love about LDS Philanthropies is that it is a volunteer organization with all costs covered by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Monetary and in kind donations are used 100% for relief of those in need.
November 12th 2-4 PM: Feed My Starving Children session reserved for Wilson Family Charity
• According to the website: Feed My Starving Children is a Christian organization committed to “Feeding God’s Starving Children Hungry in Body and Spirit.” If you have ever been to help, you have felt of the great spirit of this organization as they seek out hungry children across the world and feed them, one little bagged meal at a time. To learn more, visit: http://www.fmsc.org/
• How you can help: spread the word, let me know that you would like to volunteer (as we can take the first 85 to respond), donate to the organization and/or collect donations, and pray for those both giving and receiving.
• All monetary donations for the event will go to Feed My Starving Children. Each volunteer will pack approximately $52 worth of food. I would love for us to cover as much of that as we can ourselves and we would be happy to take along any donations you have collected even if you cannot attend.
Time and place TBD: Wilson Family Charity Talent Show and Book Drive
• More information to follow.
Last month I was privileged to volunteer again at Feed My Starving Children where I learned that FMSC will host your birthday party group. That sounds like a fabulous party to me! Unfortunately I was too late to book a party for my birthday next month, but the thought snowballed for me as I realized that I will turn 33. This was the age of our Savior Jesus Christ when he completed his mortal ministry and took upon himself the sins and sorrows of the world. He was crucified and resurrected and I know He lives. And I feel compelled to follow His example in a bigger way this year. He taught, “Suffer [or allow] the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God” (Mark 10:14). How can I better serve Him than to take care of his children and invite others to join me?
Though we volunteer as Christians, we believe that good works are good works regardless of religious beliefs or affiliations. We welcome all volunteers. We hope and pray that you will consider these projects and determine how you can help us bring relief to wonderful children who need us.
Warmly,
Dave and Kristin Wilson and Family
PS I will be sending future emails to this list about these projects (though I promise not to clutter your inbox). If you would not like to be included in future emails please let me know. Also, if you know of someone who would like to be added to the list, please send me their email address.
We need your help. Our family has embarked on a service adventure, spearheading a series of fantastic charity projects to benefit children. In case you couldn’t tell, I really love children and this year I want my children to serve side by side with Dave and me and our friends and neighbors as we proactively assist some wonderful organizations to serve children in need.
I know many of you already volunteer in a number of ways, and we think that’s awesome. We hope you will have the time and/or money to join with us, and that at the very least, you will spread the word to your friends, sports teams, churches, and to anyone who can help. No volunteers will be turned away, but in order to keep our efforts coordinated, please keep us updated on how you’ve chosen to help.
So what’s on the Wilson Family Charity agenda so far?
May 6th-7th: Wilson Family Charity Great American Bake Sale held at the Steeple Run Walgreens (6S235 Steeple Run Drive, Naperville, Illinois 60540), 2-7 PM Friday, and 9-4 PM Saturday
• Our children are so blessed, yet nearly 1 in 4 kids in America faces hunger. Share our Strength is working to change that. Read more about it here: http://gabs.strength.org/
• How you can help: spread the word, solicit local businesses for donated goods, bake goods yourself or with your children, work the sale, purchase from the sale, spread the word online (as we will have an online donation page sending calorie-free virtual cupcakes!) and pray for good weather and for those giving and receiving.
• All money raised will go directly to Share our Strength to aid them in the work of feeding hungry children in America.
Late summer-early September: Wilson Family Charity School Kits Drive
• Our children have an abundance of the tools needed for learning, yet so many children have a great desire to learn and don’t even own a pencil. LDS Philanthropies collects humanitarian aid supplies and school kits to help those in such a circumstance. See page 5 for school kit guidelines: http://www.ldsphilanthropies.org/humanitarian-services/patterns/service-project-guidelines.pdf
• How you can help: spread the word, purchase school supplies according to the guidelines (we’ve targeted the timeline of back-to-school sales), donate fabric for the bags, help sew the bags, aid in assembling the kits, and pray for those donating and receiving.
• All completed kits will be donated to LDS Philanthropies for distribution around the world, primarily to schools and orphanages and also as part of disaster relief upon occasion. One thing I love about LDS Philanthropies is that it is a volunteer organization with all costs covered by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Monetary and in kind donations are used 100% for relief of those in need.
November 12th 2-4 PM: Feed My Starving Children session reserved for Wilson Family Charity
• According to the website: Feed My Starving Children is a Christian organization committed to “Feeding God’s Starving Children Hungry in Body and Spirit.” If you have ever been to help, you have felt of the great spirit of this organization as they seek out hungry children across the world and feed them, one little bagged meal at a time. To learn more, visit: http://www.fmsc.org/
• How you can help: spread the word, let me know that you would like to volunteer (as we can take the first 85 to respond), donate to the organization and/or collect donations, and pray for those both giving and receiving.
• All monetary donations for the event will go to Feed My Starving Children. Each volunteer will pack approximately $52 worth of food. I would love for us to cover as much of that as we can ourselves and we would be happy to take along any donations you have collected even if you cannot attend.
Time and place TBD: Wilson Family Charity Talent Show and Book Drive
• More information to follow.
Last month I was privileged to volunteer again at Feed My Starving Children where I learned that FMSC will host your birthday party group. That sounds like a fabulous party to me! Unfortunately I was too late to book a party for my birthday next month, but the thought snowballed for me as I realized that I will turn 33. This was the age of our Savior Jesus Christ when he completed his mortal ministry and took upon himself the sins and sorrows of the world. He was crucified and resurrected and I know He lives. And I feel compelled to follow His example in a bigger way this year. He taught, “Suffer [or allow] the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God” (Mark 10:14). How can I better serve Him than to take care of his children and invite others to join me?
Though we volunteer as Christians, we believe that good works are good works regardless of religious beliefs or affiliations. We welcome all volunteers. We hope and pray that you will consider these projects and determine how you can help us bring relief to wonderful children who need us.
Warmly,
Dave and Kristin Wilson and Family
PS I will be sending future emails to this list about these projects (though I promise not to clutter your inbox). If you would not like to be included in future emails please let me know. Also, if you know of someone who would like to be added to the list, please send me their email address.
Welcome!
Welcome to the Wilson Family Charity blog! We are so excited to move forward with projects we have felt inspired to undertake, projects which will allow us to gather the good people in our lives and benefit those in need as a team.
Please bear with us as we move forward with the technology side of building a charity. We are not professional web designers or logo designers, and at this time we are unwilling to divert funds away from the actual charity work.
We look forward to partnering with as many families and individuals as we can reach out to. No volunteers will ever be turned away.
Please follow our blog and sign up for email updates. To be added to our email list, or to contact us for any other reason please email us at wilsonfamilycharity@gmail.com.
Please bear with us as we move forward with the technology side of building a charity. We are not professional web designers or logo designers, and at this time we are unwilling to divert funds away from the actual charity work.
We look forward to partnering with as many families and individuals as we can reach out to. No volunteers will ever be turned away.
Please follow our blog and sign up for email updates. To be added to our email list, or to contact us for any other reason please email us at wilsonfamilycharity@gmail.com.
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