Our Mission
BIRTHDAY SMILES MISSION IS TO PROVIDE MEMORABLE BIRTHDAY PARTIES FOR CHILDREN LIVING IN HOMELESS OR PROTECTIVE SHELTERS. WE RECOGNIZE THE IMPORTANCE OF A BIRTHDAY IN A CHILD'S LIFE AND BELIEVE THAT THE GIFT OF A BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION PROVIDES NORMALCY, JOY AND HOPE IN THESE CHILDREN'S OTHERWISE UNSETTLED LIVES.
Program Overview
Birthday Smiles, started by Rise Justice, began celebrating in June of 2009. Countless volunteers and children's entertainers donate their time and bring monthly joy to these deserving children. Each celebration includes presents for the birthday children that they have specifically requested. Cake, ice cream, drinks, decorations, crafts, small gifts for all children who attend and entertainment (when we can get it) provided at every party.
Birthday Smiles, with adequate funding, currently provides parties for children at the Comitis Crisis Center, The Colfax Community Network, Access Housing, and the Family Tree House of Hope. We have formerly celebrated with The Gathering Place, Colorado Coalition for the Homeless in Lowry and The Samaritan House.
Since inception, we have celebrated with over 11,000 children at these locations. In addition to birthday parties, Birthday Smiles has taken on special projects such as summer carnivals at TGP and and obtained goods and services for the agencies served.
In January of 2020, Angela Richburg will be the new Managing Director of Birthday Smiles. She has been with us for over 5 years and we welcome her enthusiasm and smile to this new position.
Our Values
Inclusion: Embrace and celebrate the uniqueness of every child
Enthusiasm: Exhibit and encourage genuine joy and happiness through the celebrations of birthdays.
Openness: Seek out new opportunities to provide birthday parties to children who are experiencing homelessness and poverty in Denver with the flexibility that each venue requires.
In The News
Read the full story HERE