20 years ago, in a PICU room of Loma Linda University Children's Hospital, Chaplain Tim Evans heard a plea and saw a need when a parent asked for his help. The father of a little girl killed in an accident looked at Evans, founder of TUF/The Unforgettables Foundation, in the eye and asked, "Can you help us - we have no money for the funeral of my daughter?"
Now a CFRE/Certified Fundraising Executive and CEO of TUF, based in Redlands, Evans took "Hector's" heart-ripping call for help personally to heart and created TUF with a group of community volunteers nearly a generation ago. The charity continues to export aid and expand.
Over 5,000 have been assisted for children in cash strapped families who have died, ages 18 and down for all causes of childhood death - from across Orange, San Bernardino and Riverside Counties. Each year, over 200 parents and grandparents benefit from the 501(c)(3) outreach.
2020 is the 20th year from the first actual case - a girl named Lele, who died in San Bernardino from Sickle Cell in Jan. 2001. Therefore, the group is commemorating that with requests for
$20, $200 & $2,000 donations, in what it calls the 20/20 Vision Campaign to share the idea.
The Unforgettables ministry and cause has filled a previously unmet need. It is a worthy and worthwhile vision because "Where There is No Vision the People Perish!"
As part of its current 20/20 Vision campaign to create other chapters around North America, the beloved local group is always looking for volunteers and board members, as well as donors.
Just this year, chapters have opened in Las Vegas and Ohio, with more forming in New Mexico, Georgia, and British Columbia. For the Canadian extensions look at The Unforgettables Fund - also on Facebook. Please call The Unforgettables at (909) 335-1600 if you or someone you know would like to start a chapter.
"With the idea coming in 1998, the IRS number and name assigned in '99 and the start in 2000, we thank God and so many good hearted donors for helping us to be a rare grass roots cause to survive at least 20 years!" says Mr. Evans recently. "I'm thankful Hector asked for help."
All ofthis generation of giving good gifts is due to great volunteers. www.unforgettables.org