Tuesday, December 3, 2024

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How does GivingTuesday make an impact?

Hi, I'm Shay

I help keep children safe and families together.
As a case manager with the Children’s Cabinet, I support families during times of uncertainty, offering both guidance and stability. One family that stands out is the Carters—Jessica, Michael, and their children—whose perseverance in the face of hardship has been inspiring.
 
I began working with the Carters in 2023 when they joined our Parents as Teachers (PAT) program. They were eager to improve their lives despite financial struggles. Jessica worked for Uber and Lyft, and Michael worked part-time at the airport, but their income was often just enough to get by.
 
In November 2023, the Carters were forced to leave their home when the property was sold. Soon after, Michael’s hours were reduced, making it impossible for them to cover basic expenses. In January 2024, they secured a new apartment, but just a month later, tragedy struck when Jessica’s father passed away unexpectedly, further straining their finances.
 
With eviction looming, we turned to The Children’s Cabinet’s Client Emergency Needs Fund. Despite having $1,000 for rent, they were short $720. Together, we identified areas for financial improvement, and I connected them with resources like the CC Market to help with groceries. They’ve also accessed baby supplies and are using our laundry services to save money.
 
Through their determination and hard work, the Carters are on a path toward financial stability. Jessica is actively seeking a more stable job, while Michael’s hours are expected to return to normal. The Carters are learning valuable lessons in budgeting and seeking support when needed.
 
Their story is a powerful example of resilience. With the support of donors like you, families like the Carters can stay housed, stay together, and work toward a brighter future. Thank you for being part of their journey and mine. 

Meet Natalia & Keith

Why do you give back?

For Natalia and Keith, volunteering isn’t just about giving time—it’s about creating lasting change.

Natalia has always had a natural inclination to help others. “I come from a large family, and growing up, we just took care of each other,” she says. “It was never something I thought about—it was just what we did. Over time, I came to see how impactful it can be to make a positive difference in someone else’s life.”  Keith added, “As I got older, I realized how important it is to give back, especially when you have the means to help others,” he explains. “Kids are the most vulnerable in our society. They’re the ones who often don’t have a voice, and if I can help give them a voice, I want to do that.”

Their path to The Children’s Cabinet started with a simple moment on LinkedIn. Natalia came across a friend’s post about the need for volunteers and shared it with Keith. He immediately agreed it was a cause they would be proud to support. What really resonated with them was The Children’s Cabinet’s focus on prevention. “I love that it’s not just about providing resources after a crisis, but about offering tools and education to help families stay together before things get to that point,” Natalia shares. “That, to me, is what makes this organization so powerful.”

They became regular volunteers, helping at events like the Great Reno Balloon Races, assembling food bags for families, and supporting the Easter Basket drive. “Rather than just donating a basket or two ourselves, we decided to reach out to our network. I was truly moved by how many people were willing to help” Natalia shares. “Those who couldn’t volunteer their time were grateful to contribute in other ways, we just needed to ask.”

One of their most memorable experiences was helping children take their first hot air balloon ride. “It was incredible to see the joy on the kids’ faces,” says Keith. “Some were excited, some were nervous, but it was about giving them a moment to feel special. And what’s even more meaningful is that it was a proud moment for the parents too. They got to give something to their kids that was just for them.”

Their journey with The Children’s Cabinet has also been deeply personal. “As a couple, we can’t have kids of our own, and volunteering here has given us a way to pour our love into kids who need it,” Natalia reflects. “It’s powerful to know that even if we can’t be parents in the traditional sense, we can still make a difference in a child’s life.”

For anyone considering volunteering, Natalia advises: “Start small. A couple of hours a month can make a huge impact if you’re passionate about the cause.” Keith adds, “I agree, don’t worry about making a big time commitment—just give what you can.”

For Natalia and Keith, volunteering with The Children’s Cabinet is about building a stronger, more compassionate community, one family at a time. Their commitment is a powerful reminder of the impact of giving, the importance of family, and the difference we can all make in each other’s lives.

Meet Erica

What would you do if you had to start all over?

When Erica came to The Children’s Cabinet for help, she was a single mom escaping an abusive relationship, homeless, and searching for a job to support her young child.

In April, she enrolled in the Parents as Teachers program, eager to become her child’s first and most important teacher. With weekly support from her case manager, Erica secured housing and a job, bringing hope back into her life.

However, she faced a setback when her child fell ill, leading to job loss due to unreliable child care. Determined to overcome this, she worked with her case manager to create a new child care plan and found a new job.

To help bridge the gap due to her loss of income, The Children’s Cabinet provided budgeting support along with one month of rental assistance, essential food, hygiene items, and diapers to help her back on her feet. With these supports, Erica is on the path to self-sufficiency, equipped with the tools and confidence to build a brighter future for herself and her child.

What is GivingTuesday?

GivingTuesday is a global movement that inspires hundreds of millions of people to give, collaborate, and celebrate generosity.

What does GivingTuesday mean to The Children's Cabinet?

Donations collected on GivingTuesday will benefit The Children’s Cabinet’s Client Emergency Needs Fund. This vital fund helps families in dire situations and assists them with necessities such as rent, utilities, gas, and unforeseen bills that can push a family to their limit. With your support, we are able to keep families in their homes where they are safe and together. 

4 Ways to Get Involved

1. Give your time or talent. Our work would not be possible without the support of our amazing volunteers. Sign up today!

2. Give your voice. Help us spread the word about GivingTuesday on social media. Use this toolkit, post on your page, and tag us! Make sure to follow The Children’s Cabinet on your favorite platform.

3. Give financially. Make a donation through the form on this page, start your own fundraising page, or create a Facebook fundraiser.

3. Give goods. Our Toy Table and Adopt A Family programs ensure children in our community have a holiday they will never forget. Donate toys and bring holiday cheer to children in need!

Share your Donation & Inspire Others

Did you make a donation for GivingTuesday? Share it with your community and inspire others to give back. Click on the graphic to download the image and post it to your social media! 

The Children’s Cabinet, Inc., is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization located in Nevada (Tax identification number 77-0097156). Your contribution may be tax-deductible under federal law.

Need assistance? Email Ashleigh Foster:

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