World Kindness Day: A mother-daughter duo transforms lives 

Claudia’s journey began in middle school when her teacher gave a presentation about SOS Children’s Villages. Deeply moved by the stories of children who had lost their families, Claudia knew helping vulnerable children would be a significant part of her life. 

 “I knew then that I would someday like to help support this wonderful project,” Claudia said. 

Now, she’s been a donor and child sponsor with SOS Children’s Villages for almost 20 years! When she became a mother, she developed an even deeper connection to SOS Children’s Villages. 

“Every child deserves to grow up with the love and protection only a family can offer,” she said. “I deeply respect and admire all the wonderful women who dedicate their lives to their SOS families as SOS Mothers.” 

She has worked hard to pass down a sense of compassion and generosity to her own children. When Claudia traveled from her home state of New Jersey to Russia to meet the young girl her family sponsored, she brought her son to share in the life-changing moment and to show him firsthand that love has no borders. 

Without the foundation of a safe, loving family, children can't grow into a happy, healthy child ready to reach their full potential. They need your continued support to have a safe, nurturing home, nutritious food, quality education and everything else they need to thrive. Your generosity today is life-changing for the world's most vulnerable children.

Passing the torch: Jane’s journey to kindness 

Last year, when Claudia’s daughter Jane turned 13, she decided to carry on the family tradition of sharing powerful acts of compassion. As part of her Bat Mitzvah project, Jane chose to organize a fundraiser for SOS Children’s Villages. Her goal: to make a difference for children her own age. 

“I believe there’s nothing more impactful than children helping children,” Jane said. “I am so fortunate to be in a position where I am able to try and help [those my age who] should be experiencing a carefree childhood but aren’t.”  

Claudia and Jane’s story is a testament to the power of kindness. It’s a reminder that no matter our age or background, we all have the ability to make a difference in the lives of children and families who need it most. 

This World Kindness Day, you can join Claudia and Jane in making an impact. With your support, we can continue to provide the most precious gift to the most vulnerable children: the unconditional love and care of a family.   

Here’s how you can help:  

• Make a donation: You can send the life-changing gift of a loving family to vulnerable children.  

• Sponsor a child in need: Your generous sponsorship is a daily reminder for a child that they are loved, seen and valued. 

• Share a Love Note: Share a video of you telling a loved one that you love them and tag us to spread love this holiday season. 

“I think that everyone, no matter age, gender, nationality, or religion [has the responsibility] to help and stick by one another,” Jane said. “We are all people, and even if we aren’t all connected by blood or belief, our humanity ties us together.” 

Because—as the children whose lives have been touched by Claudia and Jane’s kindness can confirm—love matters.