9-year-old philanthropist inspires others to give back
An elementary school student from Highland Park is the inspiration behind a new giving program to support survivors at A Safe Place, the sole provider of services exclusively addressing domestic violence and human trafficking in Northern Illinois.
Landon has been donating part of his monthly allowance to A Safe Place to "help families who do not have a safe home during the pandemic." The #GiveLikeLandon Piggy Bank Challenge, developed in his honor, encourages kids to learn about community service during social distancing, while also educating them on the importance of healthy relationships, financial responsibility and more.
This season, as families seek ways to give back to their community, the Piggy Bank Challenge offers an engaging and safe opportunity to make an impact. Kids and families interested in participating can do so at various levels, with options for individual donations as well as personalized fundraising pages to get family and friends involved.
Plus, the program includes an educational component, providing tools for parents to discuss serious matters like abuse. All kids joining the challenge will earn a new piggy bank, compliments of First Bank of Highland Park. The program runs through Dec. 31.
"A Safe Place is so touched by Landon and his family's relationship with our cause," says Damaris Lorta, chief development officer of A Safe Place. "Our mission is more than just supporting victims of domestic violence and human trafficking; it's about educating the community, including youth, about safety and resources. Landon's kind heart is the foundation for a new level of community outreach, and he is inspiring people of all ages."
Landon learned about A Safe Place through his mother, Jamie, who teaches her children the importance of giving and helping others year-round by empowering them to select a charity of their choice each month. When they discussed A Safe Place and the increase in need during the shelter-in-place, Landon's reaction was mature beyond his years.
"When my mom first introduced me to it, and I actually processed what she said, I couldn't handle it; I couldn't imagine it, so I wanted to help," said 9-year-old Landon, speaking of the tragic and difficult nature of domestic violence. Jamie and Landon are excited to take their community contribution to the next level and make an even greater impact on survivors and their families.
Those interested in participating or learning more can call (847) 731-7165 ext. 104 or visit asafeplaceforhelp.org/Give-Like-Landon.
Founded in 1978, A Safe Place is the leading advocate for eliminating domestic violence in Northern Illinois, and is Lake County's only provider of services exclusively for victims of domestic violence and human trafficking. A Safe Place provides emergency shelter, permanent housing, a 24-hour crisis line, (847)-249-4450, court and nonlegal advocacy, individual, group and children's counseling, art therapy, family visitation services, batterer intervention services - and community outreach, prevention education and professional training. A Safe Place's service area includes Lake, McHenry and Northern Cook counties in Illinois; however, clients come from across the state, region and country.
For information about A Safe Place, call (847) 731-7165 or visit www.asafeplaceforhelp.org, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.
To donate to A Safe Place, visit asafeplaceforhelp.org. For additional ways to help, call (847) 731-7165.
You can contact A Safe Place's Emergency Hotline at (800) 600-SAFE (7233).