Jessie was only 11 years old when she decided to focus on bringing hope, joy and love to other kids fighting cancer, all while in the midst of fighting cancer herself. Her seemingly small act of selfless compassion began a NEGU movement that has now become the global mission of the Jessie Rees Foundation. Our volunteers continue to be at the heart of our success and we are so grateful for their hard work and for their dedication. We have been fortunate to have the support of so many individuals, local and worldwide, who are dedicated to encouraging kids ghting cancer, just like Jessie wished for!
The Townsend Family are Our Volunteers of the Month for November!
Jackie Townsend first heard about the Jessie Rees Foundation from a Facebook suggestion, she says “After reading more about Jessie’s story, I just knew that this is what I would like to help do/create (smiles and joy for the children).” Her family had been searching for a Foundation to volunteer with and Jessie’s story touched Jackie enough to seek helping out. She invited her husband Dan and her stepdaughter Tiffani to join her. Dan says, “She asked if I would go with her on a Tuesday night and we have been hooked ever since.”
Tiffani says her favorite part about volunteering with the Jessie Rees Foundation is “Knowing whatever task you are doing is going to change a kid’s day. Because when they get that jar that you labeled or stuffed, it is going to put the biggest smile on their face.”
To the Townsend Family, NEGU means many things; to Never give up, even when times may be tough, and you want to throw in the towel. There is always hope, things will be ok no matter what. It means desire, courage, heart, living, strength, caring. It means to Never Ever Give Up!
If your thinking about volunteering at the JoyFactory or wit hate Jessie Rees Foundation nationwide, Dan says, “It will change your life in a positive way. You will make new friends. You will feel things in your heart you have never felt before.” Jackie also encourages others to volunteer, “It will change your life. Because not only are you filling jars with love, but you are helping a child to have joy and happiness, even if it’s just for a moment. You’ll also meet wonderful, likeminded people.”
Get to know the Townsend Family better…
When they are not volunteering in the JoyFactory, the Townsend family loves visiting Disneyland or taking vacations together! Tiffani also loves to bake.
Now Jessie’s favorite game! WOULD YOU RATHER… never brush your teeth again or never shower again??
Jackie: “Never Shower again, because I can always take a sponge bath.”
Dan: “Never shower again, cause I can stand in a tub and poor buckets of water over me to get clean everyday.”
Tiffani: “Never brush my teeth…mouthwash will become my best friend!”
THANK YOU TOWNSEND FAMILY FOR ALL YOU DO TO HELP KIDS NEVER EVER GIVE UP! We are so thankful for each of you and your hearts!
We are so encouraged by all of the volunteers like the Townsend family who take the time to encourage kids fighting cancer and we have been fortunate to have the support of so many individuals who are dedicated to encouraging kids fighting cancer. If you are interested in volunteering with us, please visit JESSIE.ORG/VOLUNTEERS