Spring Cleaning for a Good Cause!

It is that time of year again around Casa de Leija; spring cleaning. Every Spring I pull out Jacey's last years Spring / Summer clothes and we see what fits and what needs to go; as well as the Winter clothes that she outgrew. I also go through their toys, my office, my clothes, etc.

I have found a great organization to donate these items to. Captain Hope's Kids serves approximately 10,000 children in more than 38 homeless shelters in the North Texas area each year. Donations are used in the shelters to meet these needs; and if the items can not be used, Captain Hope's Kids will sell them to area thrift stores and use the money to provide the essential needs of the children.

On any given night in North Texas, more than 1000 children will fall asleep in homeless and domestic violence shelters. Of those, over 300 will be babies, infants and toddlers. Captain Hope's Kids is the only agency that actively solicits donations and funds for the sole purpose of providing critically needed supplies to homeless children throughout this region.

This is an organization I am wanting to get involved in. I know most of you are saying what I am saying, "With what extra time?" But, I believe one of lifes purposes is to bring change. We were put on this earth to use our gifts and talents to help. When I spoke to the organization I explained to them that I had just started my photography business and it is quite demanding; but still want to serve. After looking over my volunteer application and speaking with me on the phone, the coordinator concluded that I would be a great fit for recruiting. My role will be to make phone calls off of a list that they provide me of individuals who have expressed interest in volunteering. One of the events I will be recruiting for is their annual charity golf tournament.

The other way I will be serving is by making Birthday Boxes. This program provides a simple shoebox decorated with birthday wrap and filled with small gifts, toiletries, and special surprises for homeless children who are celebrating their birthdays while living in a shelter. This is something Jacey and Gabriella will be helping with as well...I want them to help children who are less fortunate and understand the principle of giving and volunteering.

If you are interested in donating items or volunteering your time to this organization, click the link below:

Captain Hope's Kids