Philadelphia
Birthday parties are very special occasions for family and friends, no matter what our age. But do you sometimes find yourself thinking, when you’re sending out invitations to guests, “I just don’t need anything”? Or, “My son or daughter will be excited to see their friends and relatives, but they really don’t need any more presents”?
Our Brighten a Birthday program gives you and your kids an opportunity to celebrate your birthday and help other children celebrate theirs at the same time. For example: You can Invite partygoers to bring a special gift to donate. (See our "Top 10 Most Needed Items" for suggestions.) You can encourage friends and family to make a financial contribution, in lieu of giving a gift.
To register for "Brighten a Birthday" please fill out the form below. Once you are registered, we'll send you a birthday card and certificate.
Lauren (pictured in center) wanted her Sweet 16 to have a lasting impact, to inspire her classmates, and to do something for others that are less fortunate. When planning her party, she decided to ask all of her guests to bring brand-new school or arts & crafts supplies to donate to Cradles to Crayons. Some 70 guests attended the party, bringing more than 100 items to donate.
Lauren admits that she was originally thinking along the lines of MTV's Sweet 16 series, in terms of the kind of party she wanted. Looking back, though, she is much happier with her decision to donate her gifts instead: "I really wanted a big party, a performer, a Mercedes—but I think this is much cooler than any of that!"
