I’m pleased to introduce you to Hannah!
Tell BKHM readers about yourself:
I am 14 and the second oldest of 4 kids in my family. I will be starting High School this year. I love creating, decorating and fashion. When I was 12 yrs old I started asking my parents if I could decorate the birthday cakes for the family and the cupcakes for my sister’s school parties. I really enjoyed it and people seemed to like my creative ideas.
How did you get started?
I started Birthday Cakes 4 Free in Loudoun, VA when my Mom said that I should use my skills to help others. I searched the internet and found an organization, started by Elicia Hammond in Santa Cruz, CA. They give to disadvantaged kids by baking them a birthday cake. These were all for children that wouldn’t have received one, so this helps them know they are special.
Your Mission:
Birthday Cakes 4 Free in Loudoun, VA’s purpose is to provide children with a special birthday cake who otherwise might not have one due to their particular life circumstances. I serve children with one goal in mind, to let them know they are loved, cherished and important.
How do you find people to share your treats with?
I found Agencies that serve families in crisis. My next set of cakes will go to Homestretch. They help homeless families get into safe housing, find jobs, teach life skills, tutor kids and give hope. I have a list of the kids and I will deliver 10 cakes for the August birthdays. I have friends that have seen my Facebook page and many have asked to help provide a cake too. It is fun to get others involved in making lots of kids smile.
What do you like best about sharing your gift with others?
I love the feeling of giving joy to another person. I have always had fun themed birthday cakes for my birthdays and I can not imagine any kid not having a cake to represent the important day they were born.
What tips do you have for other teens who’d like to impact their communities?
Everyone has a passion for something, or they are good at a particular skill, or just enjoy a certain hobby. Figure out a way to use that passion to make others feel encouraged, hopeful and loved.
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I was blessed to meet Hannah last year and sample her yummy treats! She is full of energy and has a great big heart. I was immediately drawn to her passion for helping other people. She recognized a need in the community and sought to fill the void. Not only does she serve her local area, but she just went on a mission trip to Ghana, Africa! I love that she’s found something that she’s passionate about so early in life! Even better, she’s inspiring other teens around her!
“Action is where our beliefs meet the world.”
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Very nice girl! I wish more teenagers were like her and seek a purpose in life rather than just mop around being bored. Great job Hannah, keep it up!
Wow! Very inspiring! I love that last picture of her too! Such a pretty gal!
Way to go Hannah! I can only hope that my boys find a service that they enjoy as much! You are truly an inspiration 🙂
Wow! I am impressed and think that you are doing amazing things Hannah!
Maggy
What a wonderful way to show people that they are special! She is any amazing girl.
Wow what an incredible young lady. That’s such a lovely simple way to make a child feel special. Nice one.
This is such an incredible story. What a fantastic and caring young lady! LOVE!
I am so inspired, I’ve just emailed Elicia in CA to see about joining the cause!! Thanks for posting this great story!
I’m so inspired, I’ve just emailed Elicia in CA to get info on joining this great non-profit! Thanks for posting about this amazing teen!!
@Andrea! How awesome! Thanks for joining the cause on the other sie of the US! I love it!
What an extraordinary young woman you are, Hannah! Thank you for making a difference in the lives of young children. Blessings and love to you!
Wow! What an idea! What an inspirational young person! I think I’ll have to share this idea. Thank you for posting!
WOW!!! This is so inspiring and I love that it was thought up by someone so young. Hannah great job letting people less fortunate know that they are special and loved. Amazing job!
Great job Hannah. Wonderful work letting others less fortunate know that they are important.