The Joy in Childhood Foundation and Dunkin' Donuts are commemorating bringing joy to sick and hungry children
As we kick off National Volunteer Week, I am reminded of the words of the Greek fabulist Aesop, who said that “No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.” At the Joy in Childhood Foundation, we’re lucky enough to see firsthand the impact that lending hands and donated funds can have.
We celebrate all wins, even the littlest ones: from a smile lighting up a sick child’s face at the sight of a hospital clown troupe, to a $10 donation to help provide meals for the more that 13 million children facing hunger in the U.S. But in 2016 we also celebrated some big wins, and in many ways, it was our biggest year ever, as we:
- Celebrated our 10th anniversary – since we launched in 2006, we have granted more than $14 million to charitable organizations in our local communities.
- Relaunched with our new name and a new mission – to provide moments of joy to sick and hungry kids.
- Hosted 25+ local fundraising events and raised a milestone $4.3 million for local communities in 2016 alone.
- Had our most successful Week of Joy ever, with 1,500 volunteers giving more than 7,000 hours to pack 350,000 meals for hungry families nationwide.
- Read more about our 2016 accomplishments in our Neighborhood Impact Report.
And an equally exciting 2017 is well underway: we recently announced a new, three-year, $3 million commitment to two national charities: Starlight Children’s Foundation and Feeding America®.

Our foundation could not have accomplished all this without the support of thousands of volunteers across the country who help bring joy to sick and hungry children. This Volunteer Week, we’d like to say thank you.
How are you celebrating National Volunteer Week? You can join us in our mission by supporting your local food bank or volunteering at your local children's hospital. To learn more about the Joy in Childhood Foundation’s efforts in your community, follow us on Facebook.