For the past five years, Zoey Lacey has turned her birthday into a celebration of generosity and kindness, raising funds to help children in need. This remarkable young philanthropist began her journey just before her sixth birthday when she told her mom she didn’t want presents. Instead, she wanted family and friends to contribute so she could buy essentials for the children served by Boys Town South Florida, where her mother, Bethany Lacey, is the executive director.
“I’ve never shielded my children from the knowledge that not all kids have a safe, happy, and loving family to care for them,” Bethany shared. “Zoey has always had a soft spot in her heart for anyone who is hurting.” That empathy led Zoey to raise over $350 in her first year alone. The following year, she doubled down on her efforts, inspiring others to give nearly $2,000. Each year since, she’s continued this tradition, raising hundreds of dollars to support children who need a helping hand as part of Boys Town’s Teach Love Giving Tuesday online campaign.
Zoey’s selflessness and desire to help others come from her early exposure to the mission of Boys Town. As the child of a long-time Boys Town leader, she’s seen firsthand the challenges some kids face. “Zoey understands that not all boys and girls have the life she does,” Bethany added. “Her heart is in helping kids more needy than herself, and she’s always asking what more she can do.”
This year, Zoey will once again rally her family, friends, and community to support her fundraiser, reminding us all that no one is ever too young to make a difference. Boys Town South Florida is grateful for Zoey’s ongoing efforts, and her impact on the children she supports inspires everyone.
For more information on how you can support Zoey’s mission or learn about Boys Town South Florida, please visit boystown.org/south-Florida.