This summer, local parent support company, Familytopia announced an initiative to inspire children ages 4+ to engage with the struggling non-profits in our region. The “Philanthro-Kids Summer-Fall Project” encourages children to register for the 2012 Doll Stroll, a fall event where children and their dolls walk to raise money for the charity of their choice. “This event is unique because we’ve paired it with a special project which encourages children to select a charity that appeals to them, and then create a plan for how to raise funds for the charity. We anticipate that children will spend time engaged in planning and organizing fundraising activities, with all of the money raised going toward their tally for the walk-a-thon.” Says event creator, Johanna Corcoran.
The Rhode Island Doll Stroll is scheduled for October 13, 2012 at The Wide World of Indoor Sports in North Kingstown. This kid-focused walk-a-thon has a fun twist; walkers are invited to bring their dolls, and both child and doll receive matching finisher’s medals. The day ends with an “I Did It!” Party filled with activities specifically for children and their dolls, including a Doll Disco, Sports Zone, Salon, Photo shoot and doll accessory crafts.
The official charity of the 2012 Doll Stroll is the Pajama Program, a group that provides new pajamas and books to children who are orphaned or in foster care. However, walkers may choose to fundraise for any cause that they feel a connection to, and work directly with the charity of their choice to deliver the funds raised.
Parents will have plenty of help through the program, Corcoran says. She’s created a special e-kit, which will walk parents and children through the project; offering valuable advice about how to choose a charity and creative ways to raise those important funds. As a former professional fundraiser, Corcoran’s years of experience were very helpful in creating this program. “I’ve helped many non-profit organizations raise crucial funds and experienced that warm feeling that comes from making a difference. The earlier we are able to expose children to that great feeling, the more apt they will be to become life-long supporters of causes that are important to them.”
There is no minimum fundraising requirement to participate in the Doll Stroll. There is a $15 registration fee per child/doll pair. This fee covers admission to both the walk-a-thon and the “I Did It!” Celebration Party. More information at www.dollstroll.com.
About Familytopia:
Familytopia is a Rhode Island based company devoted to providing parents with tools and support to enrich their family time and forge deep connections with their children. Familytopia empowers parents through workshops, special events and coaching. -END –
