MAY 2017 – Member Profile – Mansion Memories
Mansion Memories, making magic happen
Mansion Memories is a place where magic happens in conjunction Rochford Foundation. The Mansion Memories organization is committed to addressing a real community need by bringing children, experiencing crisis, a day of joy, laughter and wonder.
When a child faces a life altering experience, be it a serious illness, the loss of a parent or sibling or any number of sadness’s, a Magical Day of love, hope, joy and laughter can begin the heart’s healing, and that’s the mission of Mansion Memories.
Each quarter staff and volunteers create Magical Days at the Burrage Mansion transforming it into a wonderland of delight with storybook characters, princes and princesses, Santa and his elves and any other enchanting creatures interacting with the nominated children and their family members. Smiles and laughter are the order of the day and cares and worries can be forgotten. Those Magical Days, are organized with hands on activities, crafts, games and challenges for children and parents alike, culminating in a communal feast and live entertainment. Woody and Buzz Lightyear, along with Molly, Bo Peep and a slew of green toy soldiers have greeted wide eyed children, singing dancing and playing the day away. In December non other that Santa and Mrs. Clause are on hand to gather up letters, listen to lists of wants and share in the Christmas cookies and treats. Princess Jasmine and Aladdin have visited with the wee ones sharing their love of magic carpet rides and mystical lamps harboring magical genies. Alice from Wonderland, Snow White and even Captain Hook, and Sneed have been on hand to laugh and love on those very special days.
Children are nominated by community members, neighbors, organizations, teachers, pastors, councilors or caring hearts who know what a difference a smile can make in a child’s life. There is no cost to the families participating in the Magical Days. Each day is completely underwritten through donations large and small from businesses, individuals, and through fundraising efforts.
More than seventy five volunteers step in to transform the mansion and make the magic happen, from decorating, to food preparation and clean-up volunteers are on hand to lend a hand. There is always a need for volunteers and you can be a part of the giving team by filling out a volunteer application found on the Mansion Memories website, http://mansionmemories.org.
If you would like to learn more about Mansion Memories, the Magical Days and other activities at the Burrage Mansion contact Dianna Lawson, Executive Director at mansionmemoriesmm@gmail.com.