From One School to 200,000 Smiles: Our Journey of Light

Where It All Started

Skyview Elementary School
Orange, California - 2014
40 Kids Celebrated

13 States - 52 Cities
200,000+ Birthdays

Where We Are Today

2025
200,000+ Birthdays Celebrated
Spreading light one party at a time

Project Giving Light began with a simple idea: every child deserves to feel seen, valued, and celebrated—especially on their birthday.

Our very first celebration took place at Skyview Elementary School in Orange, CA, where we showed up with lunch, games, gifts, and birthday songs for just 40 students. It was grassroots, heartfelt, and full of joy—just a few friends coming together to create light in the lives of children.

Nine years later, that spark has become a movement. From one school in Orange to 52 cities across 13 states, Project Giving Light has now celebrated over 200,000 birthdays. What started as a small act of kindness has grown into a national effort, driven by volunteers, donors, and partners who believe in the power of love and light to change lives.

As we reflect on our journey, we remain anchored in the heart of our mission: to show every child they matter. Whether it’s one child or one thousand, each birthday we celebrate is a reminder that small beginnings can grow into something truly extraordinary.