This post has been writing itself on my heart for about a month and now it’s finally time to share it with each of you.
About 5 weeks ago, I wrote about precious Julia, who deeply touched my life. Julia had been in front of my camera, once as a surprise for her mother and once as a model for the Dream Calendar 2009; but it was really her everyday life that so inspired me. Even while being confined to a wheel chair, Julia displayed indescribable joy and peace. She shined. She glowed. She radiated love and happiness and she shared it freely with everyone she met.
In August, Julia passed away. My heart broke. I looked through image after image of her beautiful smile and cried. I recalled hearing her sweet voice singing praises to God and was deeply moved. I thought about her laughter and love for Jesus that could transform an entire day, and I was reminded that one person really can make a difference.
In the days after the celebration of Julia’s life, my heart was burdened to do something to honor her and the impact that she had on so many. I began to pray. And pray. And pray. Then, after so many “God-incidences” that I could no longer ignore, I talked with Julia’s family about doing the Dream Calendar again. Just as with the first project, she would still be the inspiration. The size of this task is incredible- and it is only going to be by the power and grace of God that it can be accomplished so quickly! But, we are trusting that where God guides, He completely provides!
So, what is The Dream Calendar?
It’s a charity project that will benefit Clouds of Hope, a non-profit organization which is committed to providing support for groups, organizations and families who care for or have children with life-altering illnesses or disorders. The Dream Calendar will feature 13 children, who are affected by these illnesses to help raise awareness of their stories and the mission of Clouds of Hope.
100% of all Dream Calendar sales will go to Clouds of Hope, as they work with the City of Temple Terrace to refurbish, rebuild and recreate playgrounds for these amazing children; as well as helping to fund their monthly respite program Camp Cheer and their newest branch connect, which helps families find local churches with special needs ministries.
The first Dream Calendar was a FABULOUS success, thanks to an incredible group of sponsors, the precious families who shared their children and the community who rallied around this project! We raised over $7,000.00 that went straight to Clouds of Hope. This year, it’s time to top that number!! However, this project is enormous and we need YOUR HELP!
How can you get involved?
Right now, there are two pressing needs that we have to make this project a success…and we have a month to get it all accomplished!
1) We need a large field for on location shooting. Imagine green grass that’s a little whispy… if you have a piece of property or know someone that does, we would love your insight! You can leave a comment below or email me directly.
2) We need sponsors and donors! The calendar takes approximately $3,000.00 to print. When this expense is covered, 100% of the calendar sales can go to Clouds of Hope.
- Sponsors can purchase an ad that will appear on a month of the calendar for $150.00. This will allow promotion of a business to 1,000 individuals, all while helping this worthy cause. Interested? Just contact me via email.
- Donors can support the calendar, by making a monetary contribution and will be recognized in the calendar as well. No donation is too small or too large. Everyone can get involved, whether you can give $5.00 or $500.00! Everyone can help. Just like Julia, everyone really can make a difference.
So, what can you do today?
This calendar has the potential to make an enormous difference in the lives of many children. In honor of Julia and her love for others, let’s take a stand and make a difference, one calendar at a time!
Please note, as a 501(c)3 organization, donations to Clouds of Hope are tax deductible as allowed by law.
