Mimi's Care & Share: “Together We Share, Together We Care”

Volunteer-powered outreach, donations, and early learning support for our community.

About

Mimi’s Share & Care is a community-driven volunteer group dedicated to supporting and uplifting children through education, compassion, and connection. Our mission centers on providing free, engaging workshop classes for children at the Healy Murphy's Early Childhood Center, where we focus on building essential life and learning skills in a fun and supportive environment. Beyond the classroom, we believe learning continues at home. That’s why we also share educational resources and guidance with parents, helping them reinforce and apply these skills with their children in everyday life.

In addition to our workshops, Mimi’s Share & Care is committed to serving the broader community. We actively gather donations and contribute in any way we can to support children in our community—because we believe every child deserves the opportunity to grow, learn, and thrive.Together, we are investing in the future—one child at a time.

Inspired by Mother's Love

Mimi’s Care & Share is a volunteer group inspired by a mother’s love. It was created in memory of Maritza Cortes , who lovingly cared for many children in the San Pancracio community in Panama. Her impact extended far beyond her home daycare, as she continued to support and nurture the children even into their teenage years. She touched countless hearts and is remembered for her gentle spirit, warmth, and unwavering compassion. Her legacy lives on through every act of kindness we share and every child we care for in our community.

This group is also inspired by Lori Rhodes, mother of three, past teacher, and leader whose work has empowered volunteers across the nation by providing resources and tools that encourage individuals to share our love and compasion in the community. Through her example, many have been encouraged to discover their passions and use their unique gifts to make a positive difference in the world.

Join Mimi’s Share & Care

Following directions with Giselle

March workshop was a really heartwarming and fulfilling experience. It was so much fun playing different games with the kids while teaching the simple things like how to follow a leader, encourage one another, and take turns through sports.

Hair Hygiene with Dora

April Workshop was a success. Dora and Stella jumped right in, engaging the kids with playful moments, practicing hair brushing, and dancing together with so much joy. It was simple, fun, and full of connection.

Lets Salsa with Jesus

The May workshop was truly amazing, filled with laughter, joy, and plenty of smiles. The children were able to release their energy through dance while having fun learning basic salsa steps. It was a beautiful experience seeing them engaged, confident, and full of excitement as they expressed themselves through movement.

Community volunteers
Jesus Calzada / Lori Rhodes
Jesus Calzada, a dance instructor with Patria Dance Company, enjoyed volunteering with the children and teaching them how to have fun through dance. He looks forward to continuing to support and inspire children in the community through movement and creativity. Lori Rhodes was deeply moved by the time spent with the children, her heart filled with joy from the smiles and laughter they shared with us.

Community Volunteers
Dora Garcia / Stella Hesseling
Dora enjoyed volunteering with the children, teaching them basic hygiene tips in a fun and engaging way. As a professional hairstylist and mother, she loved sharing practical advice and helpful tips with the kids while making the experience enjoyable. Stella also enjoys volunteering with the children and was inspired to reconnect through story time, something she cherished during her years as a teacher. She finds joy in bringing stories to life and creating meaningful moments with the kids.

Community Volunteers
Giselle Vasquez / Barb Frieler
Our first workshop was incredible and reminded us why we do this. By using our skills, knowledge, time, and energy to provide interactive, fun, and educational experiences for the kids, we are reminded that we can plant seeds of hope and happiness every time we spend time with them. The children were so joyful as they got outside to kick the soccer ball, cheer each other on and getting their energy out with sports.

Giselle Vasquez

Managing Leader

As a first-generation immigrant who grew up in a third-world country and had to overcome many challenges to reach my dreams, I want to inspire and help others to believe in themselves and their dreams. I want to use my experience to provide help and guidance to those who may be going through similar situations. I am an advocate for mental health and a missionary of God. As an individual affected by trauma, I want to serve others with empathy, authenticity, and understanding. GOD has created each of us with a purpose, intentionally, uniquely, and in His own image, making every individual a "masterpiece." I want to serve the lord by reminding everyone they are God’s masterpiece. My passions and gifts: One of my greatest passions is connecting people to one another, fostering supportive relationships, and creating a strong sense of community. I believe that when individuals come together, we can share our strengths, encourage each other, and make a meaningful impact on each other's lives. Hobbies and Interests: I love painting, wood burning, drawing, dancing, and singing. I love hiking, gardening, nature, and birds. I love playing soccer and watching soccer games. DIY projects, landscaping, anything that is related to creating with my hands. I enjoy taking pictures, reading, and writing poems. The beach is my favorite, and I love seafood.

03May

Workshop Events

5/3/2026 12:35 PM

Calendar of events and examples of workshops we provide for the kids.

03May

WHERE WE SERVE

5/3/2026 12:35 PM

Mimi's Care & Share partners with the center to help build resilience and grit into each child by fostering a love of reading and teaching important lessons to help every child navigate life well!