C.O. Camp Fire Teens hold birthday parties for needy kids

Five middle school girls are making a big difference in the lives of some kids.
Members of Camp Fire Central Oregon’s Teens In Action program were in downtown Bend Friday, raising money for a cause that may not have crossed your mind.

“We are throwing birthday parties for children in need who usually don’t really get to have a birthday party,” said 12-year-old Amelia Hartman-Warr.

The group wants kids in foster care, shelters and low-income situations to feel celebrated on their special day.

“It’s sad that some kids don’t get to have the joy of a birthday,” said 12-year-old Kira Yun.

The girls are working hard to change that. They came up with the idea themselves.

The group plans and hosts its own fundraisers, with parents only stepping in when needed.

Fourteen year-old Shannon Hoyer said last year was mostly ironing out the kinks, but this year they’re off to a great start.

“Last year we had a lot of issues with getting the project off the ground,” she said. “We’ve gotten –I think we’ve gotten three birthday parties so far, and last year we got one.”

The goal is six a year, but if they raise enough money they want to do more. The funds raised go to purchasing supplies, like cake mix for the homemade cakes they bring.

Yun said throwing the parties not only makes the recipients happy, but helps spread an important message.

“It makes us know that even kids can make a difference in our community. It’s not just adults that can do great things,” she said.

If you’d like to learn more, help out or request a birthday party for a child in need, visit campfireco.org/birthday-parties