At Silver Lining Mentoring, we believe in the power of showing up. And sometimes, the most profound acts of presence come from those who know what it feels like to be left behind.
Liz Barker, a SLM staff member and foster care alum, has spent the last 5 years leading an annual Holiday Gift Drive. It’s a tradition born from lived experience – and a powerful lesson about what it means to take care of each other.
Liz remembers her first Christmas in foster care vividly. As a teenager, the day came and went without a single gift – or even a tree. “I felt invisible, lonely, and incredibly isolated,” Liz shares. “I felt forgotten.”
Years later, while struggling with homelessness in Boston, a stranger named Stephanie changed that narrative. Stephanie didn’t just walk past; she stopped. She bought Liz groceries, listened to her story, and showed up for her every week for a year. Her message was simple: “We take care of each other.”
That kindness stayed with Liz. When she rebuilt her life, she knew she wanted to give back.
“This gift drive is my impact,” Liz says. “It’s my way to combine my foster experience, my love of Christmas, and to remind people that kindness matters.”
Watch Liz share her powerful story in the video below:
This Year’s Impact
Because of Liz’s leadership and the generosity of our community, this year’s gift drive was a tremendous success.
The Numbers:
- 64 donors contributed over 225 gifts and 63 gift cards.
- 41 wish lists for SLM mentees and their children were fully granted.
- Every item was chosen to remind a young person that they are seen, valued, and loved.
Wrapped With Love
The magic continued with the hands that wrapped each package. A massive thank you to the 20 volunteers from Northeast Retirement Services who spent hours wrapping every single gift with care.
Thank you, Liz, for turning your story into a movement. You have shown us all that one person’s experience can ripple out to transform an entire community, ensuring that no young person ever feels invisible during the holidays.
Inspired to get involved?
Whether it’s becoming a mentor, volunteering, or supporting our work, there are many ways to be part of our community.
Leave A Comment