Our Mission
Birthday Smiles’ mission is to provide memorable birthday parties for children who are unhoused, experiencing housing insecurity, or facing financial hardship. We recognize the importance of a birthday in a child’s life and believe 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 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, games, and small gifts for all children who attend are provided at every party.
Birthday Smiles, with adequate funding, currently provides parties for children at the Comitis Crisis Center and The Colfax Community Network. We are always open to connecting with new organizations and facilities serving children who could benefit from a Birthday Smiles celebration.
Since inception, we have celebrated with over 15,000 children at these locations. In addition to birthday parties, Birthday Smiles has taken on special projects such as summer carnivals at TGP and obtained goods and services for the agencies served.
Leadership
After years of leading Birthday Smiles and helping it grow into the organization it is today, Angela Richburg is beginning a new chapter and passing the reins to Kara Conley. Angela's passion, dedication, and belief that every child deserves to feel celebrated have been at the heart of Birthday Smiles from the beginning. We are deeply grateful for everything she has given to this organization and the children and families we serve.
As Angela moves forward, we are fortunate to have Kara stepping into the role of Managing Director. With more than 10 years of experience with Birthday Smiles, Kara understands our mission and brings her own passion to the role. We are excited about this next chapter and the opportunity to build on the wonderful foundation Angela and Rise created.
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 across the Front Range to bring memorable birthday celebrations to children who are unhoused, experiencing housing insecurity, or facing financial hardship, with the flexibility to meet the unique needs of each organization and venue.
In the News
We’re grateful to have our work recognized in the community. Fox31 featured Birthday Smiles in “Denver Non-Profit Throws Birthday Parties for Homeless Children,” highlighting our commitment to creating meaningful birthday celebrations for children in need.
Read the full story HERE