“The magic of a birthday party is undeniable. Even for children whose toy chests overflow, a day of frosting-laden cake, balloons, and rowdy party games is monumental. And when the festivities are celebrating the day they were born, confirming that they are valued and special, well, game over. So imagine the impact that a simple birthday party can have on a child who literally has nothing.
“In 2012, Paige Chenault, a 33-year-old event planner and self-proclaimed birthday enthusiast, was touring the Dallas Life homeless shelter when she walked into a room housing a father, a little girl and two young boys. A peek into the family’s closet revealed a single party dress hanging on the rod. For Paige, the dress was a revelation, confirming the idea that when a person is at their lowest, feeling celebrated and valued is more essential than ever.
“Not long after, The Birthday Party Project (TBPP) was born.
“The two-year-old non-profit’s goal is for each homeless child in Dallas to experience a birthday party and have the opportunity on their special day to feel celebrated and ‘normal;’to swell with excitement and pride as friends and family gather around to watch them blow out candles and dream of more; to make birthday wishes come true.
“To that end, each month TBPP transforms shelters into festive spaces where kids and parents can celebrate in a just-like-home atmosphere.
“In its first year, the organization raised $35,000, attracted 200 volunteers, and taught dozens of children who’d never had birthday parties that at the end of “Happy Birthday,” they’re supposed to blow out candles.
“Today TBPP partners with 10 different agencies in North Texas (Dallas, Collin and Tarrant County) and hosts 120 parties a year. The monthly themed events overseen by a small team of dedicated volunteers feature festive decorations, cupcakes, activities, games, crafts, and party favors for the children staying at the shelter. A special individual birthday cake and gift is given to the children celebrating a birthday that month.
“The atmosphere is positively euphoric.
“Since the inception, The Birthday Party Project has celebrated over 600 birthdays with over 5,000 kids. These parties are not only a celebration of their special day –- but also a loud exclamation that these children matter. It’s just the kind of magic moment that allows a kid to have hope and to dream big. Check out a video of one of the parties here: http://vimeo.com/68316473.
“Help us continue to share these magical birthday moments by celebrating North Texas Giving Day on September 18 and donating to The Birthday Party Project at North Texas Giving Day.
-By Joslyn Taylor, The Birthday Party Project Board Member, Birthday Enthusiast
* Graphic and photos provided by The Birthday Party Project