By Jen Szénay
When my mother was incarcerated, I was seven — and like so many kids in that situation, I had to grow up quickly. My caregiver worked a lot, and our home had a strict structure. There wasn’t much room for downtime or joy — the kinds of moments that help children feel free, connected, and cared for.
That’s why events like Family Fun Day matter.
Even as a child, I remember how deeply it affected me when someone in the community showed me kindness. A school counselor, a church volunteer, a neighbor — people who didn’t have to care, but did. Those interactions showed me that I wasn’t invisible. They gave me a glimpse of the world outside of my daily stress — one where I belonged.
Family Fun Day creates that kind of space on purpose.
It’s a joyful afternoon of play, connection, and community — designed for children and families impacted by incarceration. It’s a place where kids feel safe to laugh, make memories, and see that they’re not alone. That they’re part of something bigger. And for caregivers, it’s a rare moment of rest and relief — because this day is planned with them in mind, too.
With the event just days away, we still need your help to make it special. There are a few key items left on our Amazon Wishlist — snacks, school supplies, fun surprises — and every single one helps us create a day these kids will remember.Please consider shopping the wishlist or making a donation. It might seem small, but I promise — to a child navigating a complex world — a day like this can mean everything.
