Dear FFC Supporter and Friend:
2019 proved to be another great year for the children and families we support through the Foundation for Faces of Children. We shared, learned, and walked together once again and advanced our support networks. We had our serious moments, funny moments, and moments for reflection.
I became involved with the FFC over 5 years ago after my son was born with bilateral cleft lip and palate. Because I have a repaired bilateral cleft lip and palate, I understood what lay ahead for our son. The journey forward would be filled with a range of emotions and challenging moments. How we handle those moments determine whether he thrives or if the adversity negatively impacts his confidence and self-image.
Every family with a child born with a craniofacial difference will experience this journey. The question is, how will our children and the families navigate it? With a loving and supportive network, we will develope our children’s character to ensure a triumphant journey. These children become accomplished with their varied talents and generally exhibit a sensitivity for others that shows deep care and love.
The mission of the FFC is to provide educational, networking and advocacy opportunities along the journey from newborn to childhood to adolescence. We recognize that there are changing needs depending on which season of life the child and family are experiencing. Listed below are some of the activities and programs we provided in the past year to support our children and families.
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Annual Paces for Faces Walk & Family Picnic – a beautiful fall day on Lake Quannapowitt brought us together for exercise, fun, and food to raise funds for the Foundation for Faces of Children. We had a great time, included more than 350 people, and raised over $36,000.
Making Faces Workshop with Michael Williams-Stark – A program that encourages self-expression and team work, teaches communication skills, builds self-confidence, and inspires kids to follow their dreams.
Sporting Events – We brought our children and families together for the Providence Bruins, Harlem Globetrotters, Lowell Spinners and the Pawtucket Red Sox. Great afternoons of fellowship for all.
Scholarship Awards – Four of our children, Breann Hill, Carolyn Bradley, Samantha Berman, and Sydney Cerveny were awarded substantial scholarships for college.
Cher’s Family Retreat – We supported a young adult and her family to attend the Children’s Craniofacial Association’s retreat in Scottsdale, Arizona. The annual retreat provides individuals affected by a facial difference, their siblings and parents an opportunity to interact with others who have endured similar experiences. For 2020, we’ll be supporting two additional families for their trip to Austin, TX.
Without your continuing financial support, these programs will not be possible. I ask you to consider the future needs of the Foundation and the support it provides to children with craniofacial differences and their families.
You may donate at our website (https://facesofchildren.org/how-to-help). All contributions to the Foundation are tax-deductible.
Please note that we are always looking for engaged parents, with new ideas and experiences, willing to actively join the Board, so that we may continue to make each year better than the one before. Please email info@facesofchildren.org if you are interested.
Thank you!
Michael C. Greiner
President and Board Member, Foundation for Faces of Children
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