Birthday Blessings

For Kevin's birthday this year we decided to do something a little different. He asked our friends and family to donate to Children's Hopechest (www.hopechest.org). The idea was to bring money that would have been spent on a gift or an evening out for their family and instead give the money to Team-Hope(www.team-hope.com) We began to pray that God would move in the hearts and minds of our friends and family. God definitly showed up and we were blown away by the total amount raised that evening. $618.08, more then we could have imagined! Many who gave commented on what a great idea it was and how they were excited to participate in helping Children's Hopechest and Team-Hope.
This is a picture of my neice, Renee. Earlier that day she learned about how we were collecting money for Children's Hopechest and that there are children in the world who do not have food to eat. She immediately emptied her entire piggy bank into a ziplock bag to bring to the party, $3.58. She said,"I just can't stand knowing that there are children who have nothing to eat." Out of all the gifts given that evening, this one inspires me the most. She gave all she had, every last penny. It gives me hope as I look forward to what the next generation will do to change our world.
Would you consider using your birthday to raise money for Team-Hope? We titled our event "Celebrating Life". It was such a great way to celebrate the life of Kevin by giving life to children in Africa. And it was so easy to do. Let us know if you would like tips on hosting your own party to raise money. Remember every dollar makes a difference!