Business Spotlight: 4C's For Kids

Patch: Why did you create the 4c's for Kids Fund?

I started 4C's For Kids Fund because I wanted to give back to our community and help others in the meantime.  I've lived in Dedham my entire life, and I don't remember attending lots of community events as a child.  My girls will grow up knowing that they live in a great town, and are part of a wonderful community.

Patch: What do you love most about the organization?

I love watching the faces of the children that attend my events.  Seeing them smile, and have lots of fun, reassures me that all my hard work is for a purpose.  It's the childrens' excitement that motivates me.  

Patch: Has the economy affected your fundraising efforts?

The economy does affect raising money, but I don't let that prevent me from hosting events. The more money I raise leading up to the event, the more I can offer the children.  I've been very fortunate to have many local businesses support my efforts.  I can't thank them enough.  The community benefits from their generosity.   My events are very inexpensive for families to attend.  For example:  We only charge a small fee of $5 per person to attend our annual September event “Fun For Kids” Character Day.  The five dollars includes: Face painting, carnival games to win prizes, jumpy house, arts and crafts, obstacle courses, balloon artist, magic show, dance performance, music, food and more.  We offer all this at the low cost of $5 per person, so every family in our community and nearby communities can afford to bring their kids for a day of fun.

Patch: What are you working on now?

I've been working for the past few months on planning our 5th Annual “Fun For Kids” event for September 7th. “Fun For Kids” will be held at the Dedham Pool Field (corner of Mt. Vernon and High St.) from 1-5pm.   Fundraising is a major part of my job, and I do it all year round.  It's important to me that everyone knows when they donate to 4C'S For Kids Fund, part of the money is used to help children at Children's Hospital Boston, and the rest stays right here in our community and nearby communities.  I wish more people would shop locally, and donate to keep money in our community, and not in the pockets of large corporations.  I will continue to work hard to host more and more yearly events for my children, and your children, to look forward too. 

Patch: If there was someone who wanted to create a non-profit, what advice would you give them?

I would tell them to not get discouraged when companies can't donate.  You might be told “no” 90 percent of the time.  I talk to employees, send letters, and email over 300 companies/organizations every year.  I spend 100's of hours visiting businesses, working fundraisers (mine or other local events), and networking.  If you can't commit to spending this much time, you should consider piggy backing an established non profit.   Becoming a non profit will cost you 1,000's of dollars to establish, but it's worth it.