Soares a ray of ‘Light’

Jill Soares, senior project manager at Hasbro Inc., has been awarded the Daily Point of Light Award by Points of Light for her work with the nonprofit organization, Birthday Wishes. Soares was introduced to Birthday Wishes through Hasbro’s philanthropic partnership with the organization. Over the past several years, Soares has helped the organization coordinate birthday parties for children living in homeless shelters. Her passion has empowered several of her colleagues to help collaborate on the monthly festivities, for which they create themed decorations, goodie bags and more to bring smiles on children’s faces to celebrate their big day.

Could you tell me more about your “forever friend”?

Hasbro does some pretty amazing work with foster care children in Rhode Island and provides us with opportunities to volunteer at related events. I met my “forever friend,” a 14-year-old boy, at an event held by Adoption Rhode Island and an organization called One Simple Wish. The boy reminded me so much of my own son, and we really connected. Once the party was over, I just couldn’t get him out of my head. I reached out to his social worker to re-connect. We have since developed a close friendship.

Could you tell me more about Birthday Wishes?

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Birthday Wishes is a wonderful organization that provides birthday parties for homeless children. Each party is held for all the children celebrating a birthday in the given month and the rest of the families at the shelter are all invited. Hasbro donates toys and games for all the birthday children, and we make sure every child leaves with a goodie bag. One of the great parts about my role is that I’ve been able to grow with the wonderful staff and with the families and children I get to help each month.

What are some ways people can donate or volunteer for a child’s birthday party?

Getting involved with Birthday Wishes is really easy. Just visit the website to sign up. You can choose to volunteer your time or donate gifts for a party. The site even has a wish list specific to the Rhode Island area. Useful birthday gifts include books, stuffed animals and sports toys. •

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