Q: What is the difference between The Joyful Child Foundation and other child related non-profit organizations?

A: Although inspired by a tragedy, The Joyful Child Foundation will transform that grief into compassionate action that builds and uplifts communities for the benefit of all children.  All of The Joyful Child Foundation’s programs focus on proactive approaches in dealing with the difficult issues of violence against children while celebrating the gift that is every child.

Q: Does The Joyful Child Foundation fund programs of other organizations or autonomously perform its own programs?

A: The Joyful Child Foundation will perform its own programs and in the future may align itself with other organizations that share related goals.

Q: In what areas does The Joyful Child Foundation need volunteers?

A: The Joyful Child Foundation is looking for volunteers with varying skills and time availability.  Specifically, The Joyful Child Foundation is looking for volunteers to assist in its Child Watch programs, after school programs, and organizational management.

Q: How will this help my child?

A: The response to the events of September 11 is proof of the good that can come when strangers join together to form a community.  By inspiring community awareness and involvement The Joyful Child Foundation will foster an environment where all children in a community become yours, just as Samantha became your child.  In turn, your neighbors will begin to look after the well-being of your children in the same way that they would their own.

Q: How will my contribution be used?

A:Contributions to The Joyful Child Foundation will be used specifically to:

• Facilitate community child watch programs.
  The Joyful Child Foundation is currently developing guidelines that will empower communities to develop sustainable and effective "Child Watch" programs. In order to address the diversity of our neighborhoods, The Joyful Child Foundation will offer formal and informal guidance depending on the needs and wants of the community. Signs indicating "Child Watch in effect," "Safe Houses" and respite programs will be among the options available. Our nation's communities must take collective responsibility for children's well- being and development.
  
  
• Enrich the lives of children through the creative arts and writing.
  The Joyful Child Foundation will collaborate with and support existing programs for public art education and facilitate new programs where the arts are lacking. The creative arts have proven to be wonderful tools for development and self-esteem. All children deserve the joy of self-expression and discovery.
  
  
• Nonprofit organizations that serve in the prevention of child abuse and/or abduction.
  In addition to sponsoring nonprofit programs currently working to eliminate child abuse, The Joyful Child Foundation is developing communication workshops for children and parents. Communication is the best means to diffuse arguments and avoid emotional and physical abuse.
  
  
• Research and development of predator and recidivism prevention.
  If we are to stop child molestation we must study and understand the psyche of predators.