(What Goes into Planning a Party?

Group home residents are interviewed weeks before their big celebrations. We find out their likes and dislikes--what kind of cake, themes, snacks, favorite colors, and special gifts they would like to receive. Then we go shopping!

WHAT DOES IT COST

TO give A PARTY?

The average cost of a JOTS birthday party is $220. Here's a breakdown:

cake(s) $40
one $50 gift card, plus a $20 wrapped gift
ice cream, drinks, chips $30
party theme goods (balloons, table clothes, paper goods, decorations, prizes for games) $30
treats/snacks for all kids $50
JOTS is a registered 501(c)(3) charitable organization

**100 % of your donations go directly to the children!

Making wishes

We welcome new volunteers! Since our organization works with minors, we strive to ensure the safety of our children. All volunteers working with JJF's Cornerstone children are required to fill out a screening form prior to helping with JOTS events.

VOLUNTEERING

JOTS welcomes volunteers 18 years and older who want to make a difference in the lives of children who seek hope and love.

mission & vision

To bring the magic of birthday parties and other celebrations to children living in shelters and group homes.

WE LOVE our volunteers!

JOTS believes that EVERY child deserves to be recognized on his/her birthday.

Volunteers at JOTS have learned that sometimes we take an everyday child's birthday for granted. The boys and girls who are residents at Cornerstone, a group home located within Lafourche Parish Juvenile Justice Facility, look forward to something fun and happy.

Cornerstone residents---ages 10-17---come from abused and neglected homes and many have never had a birthday celebration. When Derrick turned 17, he told us it was the first time he ever had a birthday cake. Chelsea, 16, said she never had a party. At age 15, Darius and Edward played musical chairs and hot potato for the first time and couldn't wait for the next game!

JOTS strives to make our foster children feel wanted and special, and if for only one hour they forget about their painful past experiences, then we have accomplished our goal.