Spreading Smiles volunteers regularly visit dozens of hospitals and hundreds of homes to bring joy and fun to individuals with illnesses and physical disabilities. Singers, instrumentalists, dancers, magicians, jugglers, clowns, comedians, storytellers, we have them all. We tailor each visit to the appropriate age, situation, and taste. This flagship program now completes more than 85 visits each month!
We arrange fun activities for children who are ill, whether in their homes or at our Family Center. Examples include craft and woodworking kits, baking projects, food decorating and many other activities. These activities often involve one-on-one sessions with professional craft instructors.
Music – a proven tool to empower people to pull through difficulties, alights heart and soul with true joy and laughter.
Spreading Smiles new music room offers a state-of-the-art recording equipment with top quality musical instruments where families can play the instruments, enjoy music lessons and record the songs of their dreams, returning home with a professional, personal recording!
Made possible by the kindness and understanding of All Playbacks.
Throughout the year, Spreading Smiles hosts several large-scale parties, carnivals, and other events for patients and their families. These events include a summer cruise on the NY harbor, celebrity performances, exciting entertainment, food, games, and other fun activities. Some of these events are attended by well over 1,000 guests.
Spreading Smiles sponsors family events and outings such as bowling parties, outings to pizza parlors, ice cream shops, and recreation centers; and special trips, such as a behind-the-scenes tour of Newark International Airport.
Spreading Smiles stocks thousands of titles in four separate libraries in New Jersey, California, and the hospital areas of Massachusetts and North Carolina. Titles range from humor to educational, and everything in-between. Spreading Smiles also stocks dozens of DVD players for patients’ use.
Our trailers are packed with toys and gifts for all ages. Through the course of a year, during visits, events, and in other situation, we distribute more than 12,000 gifts, valued together at over $200,000.
Spreading Smiles endeavors to satisfy special requests of children who are facing serious illnesses. Common requests include special trips and visits by celebrities. In the past, we have had President Barack Obama, Governor Mitt Romney, and noted radio personality and commentator Mark Levin.
The Family Center is an all-encompassing safe haven for patients and their families. Children with illnesses or physical disabilities can enjoy a few hours of entertainment, education and quality family time while their parents and caregivers receive some rare respite and relaxation – all free of charge.
Various sponsorship opportunities are available
in our upcoming Family Center campus.
