YEAR 1 — 2019
What I Did:
GoFundMe Fundraiser
Local Partner:
Friends of Foster Kids
What This Year Was About
Starting With a Simple Wish
In my first year, as a 5th grader, I started a GoFundMe campaign because I wanted to help foster kids have a fun and memorable Christmas.
I shared my wish with my family and friends, and they supported me right away.
That support is what helped me begin Bag of Joy.
How I Took Action
Turning Donations Into Gifts
Once I raised the funds, I contacted Friends of Foster Kids (FOFK) to get a list of items on their wish list.
With the contributions, I went to Walmart, Target, and other stores to find the best prices for clothing, toys, art supplies, and journals.
It was my first time shopping for someone I didn’t know, and it made the experience feel meaningful and exciting.
Giving Back to Our Local Partner
Friends of Foster Kids
After buying everything on the list, I went back to Friends of Foster Kids and delivered the gifts to Ms. Theresa Toia.
I felt proud knowing I was helping a child who really needed these presents.
It made Christmas feel different — and better — because it wasn’t just about me anymore.
My JoyStory
The Feeling That Started It All
I didn’t know what giving back would feel like in 5th grade. I just wanted to make a child happy for Christmas.
But when I dropped off the gifts, I felt something really special — like I had made someone’s day brighter, and that made me happy too.
That feeling stayed with me, and it made me want to keep helping kids every year.
It was the first moment I realized that giving creates a feeling that lasts.
Impact of Bag of Joy
Making my Box to take to FOFK
List of Donations for Bag of Joy