Celebrating Our Season of Thanks and Giving Across Bright Futures Communities

Celebrating Our Season of Thanks and Giving Across Bright Futures Communities 

As Safe and Sound Schools celebrates our annual Season of Thanks and Giving, I am thrilled to share that our partners at Verkada are matching all donations dollar-for-dollar up to $15,000 through the end of the year! This incredible display of generosity has a widespread impact on our organization, including our signature Bright Futures program. We are so grateful for the support and invite you to double your impact with a donation here.  

Our profound appreciation extends throughout our Bright Futures Communities as we also celebrate the incredible work being done to support students, families, and schools across the country. This season reminds us that the gifts of time, talent, and treasure, are at the heart of every safe and thriving school community, and Bright Futures brings those values to life every day.  

Every day, more than 80 Bright Futures Communities help ensure that children's basic needs are met, and that they feel supported, seen, and ready to succeed. Here are just a few examples (and photos!) showing how communities are putting the Bright Futures mission into action this season: 

Bright Futures Grain Valley, MO 

Bright Futures Grain Valley recently held their annual Breaking Bread for Bright Futures luncheon, where all donations went toward erasing student lunch debt in their community. At the event, Dr. Brad Welle was honored with the Bright Futures Legacy Award in recognition of his dedication and contributions to student success in Grain Valley. A very special member of our Bright Futures community, Dr. Welle previously served as the coordinator for the district ahead of his ascent to Superintendent.  

Big congratulations to this community and to Dr. Welle for a job well done! 

Bright Futures Lincoln, AR 

Bright Futures Lincoln held their annual luncheon to celebrate the community’s mission and impact. So far this school year, they have helped 470 students through pantry support and outreach initiatives. Safe and Sound team members Doug Hunt and Sarah Richardson were able to attend and celebrate the community’s dedication firsthand.  

Great job, Bright Futures Lincoln!  

Bright Futures Neosho, MO 

Bright Futures Neosho held a coat distribution, providing 825 coats to students and families in need – keeping kids warm and ready to learn this winter.  

Thank you for being a beacon of light, Bright Futures Neosho!  

Bright Futures Farmington, AR 

Bright Futures Farmington kicked off their monthly Cardinal Food Pantry, focusing on providing consistent access to food for students and their families. Their efforts are ensuring that students have the energy to focus and thrive at school.  

Keep up the great work, Bright Futures Farmington! 

Bright Futures Omaha, AR 

During recent parent-teacher conferences, Bright Futures Omaha opened their Eagle Closet to families in need, giving students access to clothing and essentials that make a real difference in their daily school experience.  

Thank you for making a difference, Bright Futures Omaha!  

Bright Futures Frederick/Winchester, VA 

Bright Futures Frederick/Winchester’s administrative team went above and beyond with a food drive and Thanksgiving Giveaway, ensuring families in their community can celebrate the season with security and support.  

Thank you for rising to the occasion this season, Bright Futures Frederick/Winchester!  

This Season of Thanks and Giving, we celebrate the power of connection, honoring communities that come together to make sure every child has what they need to thrive. Your generosity helps us strengthen school culture, climate, and community, while creating safe and supportive spaces where students can thrive.  

If you’d like to support Safe and Sound Schools and Bright Futures this season, we would be so grateful. Don’t forget that your impact is doubled through Verkada’s matching campaign, up to $15,000.  

Every single act of support makes a lasting difference in the lives of students and families across the country. Together, we can ensure that every child has a champion, and every school is at the heart of its community.  

With gratitude,  

Kim 

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Read More About Bright Futures:  

• Safe and Sound Schools Welcomes Doug Hunt as Associate Director of Bright Futures Mission Development  

• Understanding Maslow Before Bloom: Why Meeting Basic Needs Comes First  

• Celebrating 15 Years of Bright Futures Joplin  

• 14 Years Later: Remembering the Joplin Tornado