The 16th annual North Texas Giving Day, hosted by the Communities Foundation of Texas, began at 6 a.m. today and has received over $37 million in donations so far!
North Texas Giving Day serves as a vital fundraising event for local nonprofits, and today, the Laughter League is spotlighting its mission to bring therapeutic humor to those in need. With a goal of raising $10,000, the organization has already garnered $3,400 from 11 donors, marking 34% of their target.
The Laughter League, co-founded by Tiffany Riley and Dick Monday, is a nonprofit dedicated to sparking joy and healing through the power of laughter. Their highly-trained performing artists visit pediatric hospitals, care facilities, schools and other venues, using humor to empower patients, reduce stress and foster hope. Their efforts are not just about entertainment; they are a crucial part of integrative health, where laughter plays a role in comprehensive care.
With the funds raised from North Texas Giving Day, the Laughter League aims to expand its Joy Family program in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. This new initiative builds on their experience with children by bringing therapeutic humor to seniors, particularly those living with dementia. The program seeks to empower these residents, helping them access joy and regain a sense of agency often lost as their memory declines.
In addition to the Joy Family, the Laughter League will use the donations to enhance its existing programs at Cook Children’s Medical Center, Parkland Hospital and Camp John Marc. These programs bring laughter to over 100,000 children and their families annually, reducing the stress and anxiety that accompany serious medical conditions.
Riley and Monday, known for their work as "Slappy and Monday," have been performing together for over two decades. Their experience spans global stages, from the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus to The Big Apple Circus. Their journey has now brought them to the heart of healthcare, where their work has a profound impact on both pediatric and senior care.
Through North Texas Giving Day, the Laughter League seeks to continue its mission of bringing laughter and healing to those who need it most. As the organization grows, it remains committed to transforming healthcare environments into spaces where patients are seen as whole individuals, not just their diagnoses.
To donate to the Laughter League, click here and to learn more about North Texas Giving Day by visiting its official website, clicking here.
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