Moved by the story of a child being left behind on their birthday, Geelong’s Louise Larkin decided to make a change by organising a birthday party for all children in her area in 2017.
The party attracted over 300 locals.
Quitting her full-time corporate job to focus on Friend In Me, it is now a not-for-profit organisation that promotes social inclusion and acceptance for children through sensory-friendly events, workshops and parties.
Friend In Me also offers retreats to parents of kids with disabilities with the goal of creating a respite house for the parents of socially-challenged kids.
“At the time I was working in a corporate sales role and was driving home from work when I heard this story of a young boy who had no one come to his party,” Louise said.
“With daughters of my own, I knew I wanted to make a change and make sure this didn’t keep happening to children.”
Sunbites Good Fuel Fund has donated $25,000 to Friend in Me.
Sunbites Good Fuel Fund is an initiative designed to fuel local charities and shine a light on the charity heroes behind them doing good in their communities.
“We are delighted to be receiving the $25,000 donation from the Sunbites Good Fuel Fund which will help us to continue providing workshops, events and parties whilst also helping us to educate businesses and schools on how they can make sure all kids feel included,” Louise said.
“Our overall vision is to make sure there is no child left behind by 2030, creating an opportunity for all kids to be understood.
“Through Friend In Me, we want kids to continue smiling when they walk away from our events and feel accepted no matter where they are. They need to be smiling in society and life itself.”
