The Issue: Homeless Youths

One in 45 children experience homelessness in America each year, according to statistics published by the National Center on Family Homelessness. That's over 1.6 million children. Many of these kids end up living in shelters, and often go without the small luxuries that many children enjoy, such as birthday parties.

The Campaign: Hosting Birthday Parties for Homeless Youths

If this Grassroots campaign raises $1,500, then Beverly’s Birthdays can partner with a local agency that provides emergency/transitional shelter for 15 homeless youths, giving each of them the chance to celebrate their own birthday during monthly parties, open a birthday gift, and attend the parties of the other children. Each additional $1,500 raised will allow Beverly’s Birthdays to partner with another new agency to provide 15 more parties.

Beverly’s Birthdays

Megan Yunn met a child named Beverly at a local afterschool program, where she was volunteering to provide homework help. After learning that the young girl had never had her own birthday party, Yunn left with the idea to start Beverly’s Birthdays.

Today, the organization’s staff of “cheerleaders,” still helmed by Yunn, works together 365 days a year to provide gifts and birthday celebrations to low-income youth and those experiencing homelessness. Parties include food such as pizza, birthday cake, and fun activities that correspond with an overarching theme. Past themes have included mad scientists, superheroes, and beach blast. Each child gets a chance to take part in a special celebration, open his or her own birthday present, and attend the birthday parties of their peers throughout the year.

Check out more Groupon Grassroots campaigns here.