foster & adoptive care coalition: to create permanency in foster children’s lives by recruiting and supporting foster families in the metropolitan St. Louis region
meet volunteer debra neimann of ladue
How long have you been a volunteer?
I attended the nonprofit’s spring fundraiser Hope in a Handbag five years ago and was invited to learn more about its mission. I was blown away by the steps it takes to help foster kids find homes. I’m a mother of four, and I know how hard it is to raise my own kids. To see these children without families really tugged at my heartstrings. I knew my family couldn’t take on another child, but I was happy to give them my time and money. Everyone at the organization is so grateful for what I do, and they are a joy to be around. They really give me as much as I give them.
What kind of volunteer work are you involved with? I help with three big programs throughout the year, but I’m always on call. In October, we begin working on Little Wishes. The coalition partners with KSDK 5 On Your Side to grant more than 3,600 holiday wishes for children in foster care. I call foster parents to verify gifts and make sure everything in the database is correct. Kids can choose to have a room makeover, so I find out their favorite colors and interests. Next is the Cinderella Project, which gives away prom dresses. This is really fun to help with since I have all boys. It’s a joy to be a ‘fairy godmother’ and help pick out a dress, shoes and accessories with these girls. Finally, Hope in a Handbag is in April. I’ve been a co-chair in the past, and I’m on the committee this year. The event is a lot of fun, especially if you love purses! The auction has around 1,500 bags ranging in value from $20 to $3,000. The cause really speaks to both my husband and me. We’re happy to be involved with any event, and it’s an easy organization to be generous with because everything goes toward helping children.
If you could do anything for the organization, what would it be?
I’m so blown away by everything foster parents do; they are truly angels. My dream would be to eventually give back in that way and provide a home for a child in need. Until that day comes, I’m more than happy to give the organization all the support it needs. I would love to see more of these kids in forever homes.
in the words of foster & adoptive care coalition: “Debra’s terrific skill set and dedication quickly made her one of our MVPs! She’s put in dozens of hours helping with Little Wishes and Hope in a Handbag, and she always leaves with an offer to come back and help more. We are so thankful for her passion and commitment.”
Photo: Colin Miller of Strauss Peyton Photography
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