When #YMCCommunity member Stephanie Keeping was a child, she decided she wanted to sponsor a child from Plan Canada for her birthday. Learn how it changed her and why she wants to instill a sense of giving back in her four-year-old son Sam.
Stephanie KeepingI credit my dad for teaching me the importance of giving back to others. Because of his positive influence, I grew up conscious of those around me and how I could help them. Now that I am a mom, it's something I work hard to instill in my son Sam.
I can still clearly remember the year I turned 12 {I won't tell you how many years ago that was... ahem}. Before my birthday, I asked my dad if instead of a present for myself we could sponsor someone through the Plan Canada Sponsor Program. Together we researched and chose the country of Nepal. I was delighted to be matched with a six-year-old girl named Santa Maria.
Because Sam is an only child, I'm very aware of him becoming spoiled. I want him to be mindful of the needs in society and how he can better the world. As a result of this, we've limited gifts during Christmas and birthdays. With his upcoming fifth birthday this July, I'm in full on party planning mode. Here is what we are doing to ensure we plan a special birthday party with meaning.
Do you love the idea of throwing a birthday party that gives back? Read these articles and learn how you can throw a birthday party that will make a difference in the life of a child.
Then make your next birthday one to remember by registering for Plan Canada’s Gifts of Hope: Birthday Registry.
Simply invite your friends to purchase that are meaningful to you, then enjoy your special day knowing that your birthday gifts will make a lasting difference in the lives of children.
This is proudly sponsored by our friends at Plan Canada.
www.plancanada.ca/birthdayregistry
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