Stories

Stacy has been crafting smiles and spreading joy for birthday girls and boys for over a decade. Arriving multiple times each month at Open Door Mission’s Lydia House with a noticeable pink box in hand, Stacy has made it her mission to bring happiness to children at the emergency shelter by providing personalized cakes for each child on their birthday.

"I love that kids know what the pink box means," Stacy says. “It’s time for their day of celebration, a moment of joy, and a birthday memory to hold onto."

Stacy's story began with a simple idea, one born out of her devotion to her own twins. Though they share a birthday, she has always made each child their own cake. It was this same sentiment that inspired her to extend that love and care to other children so that each birthday is special and unique. Stacy sent a letter to Candace Gregory, Open Door Mission president and CEO, offering to create individual cakes and the rest is history.

Stacy’s volunteerism is often appreciated most by the mothers of the young ones. "There have been a couple of times I've been approached by a mom in tears," Stacy confides. These moms, navigating challenging circumstances, are grateful for Stacy's heartfelt gesture. Her cakes are a symbol that someone cares, a reminder that amidst adversity, there's still room for celebration.

“It’s been over 10 years – 750 or so cakes," a testament to Stacy’s unwavering commitment. Stacy shares that her volunteerism brings her joy, but she doesn’t do it seeking recognition. While she may be shy about sharing her story, she understands the power of leading by example. "If you have an idea and you think you can help someone, you can make it work," Stacy affirms.

A Lydia House resident at the emergency shelter for women and families once asked Stacy if she owned a bakery, to which she replied no. "I just share my time volunteering," she explained. The resident's response was reflective of Stacy’s work being an example to others – "Someday, I could do something like that."

Despite moving, Stacy's commitment to celebration continues each month. She now travels 45 minutes each way to deliver her cakes. And along the journey, she's learned a valuable lesson – perfection isn't the goal.

"It doesn't have to be perfect," Stacy smiles, "these cakes are perfectly made for each kid, on their day, and someone was thinking about them."

Volunteer at Open Door Mission