By Kimberly Paulk, SHARECharlotte.com, a free, easy and local website that makes it easy to learn about and engage with our local nonprofits.
Three years in, it’s hard to imagine Charlotte without The Sandbox. And they continue to grow, both in outreach efforts and the number of families they reach.
Who do they serve? Families with a child facing the diagnosis of cancer or a life altering illness. When the families’ worlds start to turn upside down, The Sandbox steps in to provide support that ranges from basic common sense needs to big-picture, dream-fulfilling stuff.
On the practical side, The Sandbox knows these families are facing mounting medical expenses along with a host of other challenges that come along with a serious diagnosis. Love Baskets are often their first introduction. These enormous green bins overflowing with food, household essentials and personal items let the families know that someone cares and understands what they’re going through. During the holidays similar programs help, with baskets of food, gift cards and gifts.
But as important as all of these efforts are, the families also need something else – normalcy. That’s where #BelieveDays come in – fun stays, events and getaways that provide a rare chance for relaxation and family togetherness. Something as simple as catching a concert or a game can go a long way toward helping everyone reconnect. The Sandbox’s signature event is An Evening of Believing Prom, which gives the gift of an evening – and an amazing memory – to the children and their families.
Interested in learning more? Visit The Sandbox on SHARE Charlotte, and check out the unique volunteer opportunities below.
Youth Mentors – Youth Mentors serve as hosts to Honorees at the An Evening of Believing℠ Prom and receive special invitations throughout the year at various programs and events to serve The Sandbox and those they impact. Applications MUST be received no later than Tuesday, March 31st so jump on this! (You can go directly to the application here http://gotsandbox.org/youthmentor/ . Open to high school students and rising college students)
Deliver Love Baskets – Become a Certified Trainer which will allow you to have personal contact with the families while you deliver Love Baskets (or help with Try On Day for The Evening of Believing). Training is coming up on April 21st, so get the details here.
