Dec
26

CFC Cause of the Week: Give a child a gift that matters

This week’s CFC Cause of the Week is Children & Family. The old adage is true: it really does take a community to raise a child. CFC charities connect children with mentors, organize community sports programs, offer after-school tutoring, provide counseling services, implement summer camps, and distribute nutritious food.

Graphic for CFC Cause of the Week CHildren and Family, showing Asian family reading a book together

Awareness programs and educational resources can help youths recognize the dangers of drugs, seek help in violent situations, obtain early job training, and access basic necessities that aren’t always available at home. Hopefully, this critical support intervenes before children can be exploited or trafficked, but charities stand ready to assist even in those horrific circumstances. Here is one example that illustrates how a CFC-participating charity stepped in to help a family:

Austin is a 6-year-old, non-verbal child with intellectual disabilities and health issues. His parents want the best for their son; they want him to have life-enriching experiences. When they heard about a camp for kids with special needs run by a CFC-participating charity, they were nervous. But Austin absolutely loves camp! He’s been four times. His mom says, “The smile on Austin’s face when he sees us pack his camp trunk is proof.” He participates in all the activities at the camp: archery, horseback riding, zip lines and swimming! He watches the DVD of the camp over and over and looks forward to returning.

Do you have what it takes to help kids like Austin live their best lives? Donate today. (Please make sure that you list 20560 for the Smithsonian Zip Code when donating.)

Here are a few more examples of how your CFC donations can help:

  • Assist those hoping to expand their families through adoption.
  • Host community youth sports programs.
  • Install accessible playground equipment so all children can play.

Learn more about Children & Family Support and visit the Virtual Charity Fair.

GIVE HAPPY through the CFC this week for a gift that lasts into 2024! Wishing you and your loved ones a Happy New Year!

 

Sincerely,

Julissa Marenco
Assistant Secretary for Communications and External Affairs
Chief Marketing Officer

Co-Chair
2023 Combined Federal Campaign

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Posted: 26 December 2023
About the Author:

Alex di Giovanni is primarily responsible for "other duties as assigned" in the Office of Communications and External Affairs. She has been with the Smithsonian since 2006 and plans to be interred in the Smithson crypt.