Some memories last a lifetime—not because of where they happened, but because of how they made someone feel. For the girls who reside at Sunrise Children's Services' Glen Dale Center in Elizabethtown, a recent afternoon tea party at The Haycraft Venue became one of those unforgettable moments.
Created through a partnership between Sunrise Children's Services, United Servants for Jesus (USFJ), which generously sponsored the event, and Busy Bee Luxe LLC, which coordinated the catering and program, the afternoon tea was much more than an elegant gathering filled with tea, laughter, and beautiful décor. It was a celebration of each girl's worth, reminding them that they are deeply loved by Jesus, valued beyond measure, and deserving of life's most beautiful moments.
“As I watched these young ladies laugh, smile, and enjoy every moment together, I couldn't help but think that this is exactly what the love of Christ looks like in action. Our hope was that, even if only for an afternoon, they would lay aside the weight of their circumstances and simply know they were celebrated. My prayer is that they never forget they are deeply loved by Jesus, surrounded by people who believe in them, and created with incredible purpose.”
— Jeff Grounds, founder of United Servants for Jesus
That vision became a reality through the generosity of volunteers, donors, community partners, and local businesses who gave their time, talents, and resources to make the afternoon possible.
“Pure magic, complete belonging, and an unforgettable afternoon!”
— Jamie Butler, United Servants for Jesus
The vision was simple yet profound: create a cozy, elegant, and completely safe space where the girls could simply be girls. From the moment they arrived, they were welcomed into a beautifully decorated setting with soft linens, delicious treats, and an atmosphere designed entirely with them in mind. Every detail reflected one powerful truth: they mattered.
“It was such a magical evening for the girls. They truly felt like little princesses at a beautiful afternoon tea party.”
— Sydney Gibson, Glen Dale Center Residential Case Manager
The excitement was contagious. Some girls laughed as photographers captured the special moments, joking, “It feels like paparazzi are following me around!” Others treasured the opportunity to be pampered, with one girl sharing, “It is so nice to have our hair and makeup done.”
Beyond the beauty of the afternoon, the event touched hearts in lasting ways.
Guest speakers shared heartfelt messages of love, encouragement, and hope, reminding each young woman that she is seen, valued, and worthy. For a few precious hours, the burdens many of these girls carry seemed to disappear, replaced by heartfelt conversations, genuine connection, and the realization that an entire community believed in them.
“Amidst the chaos that life can sometimes bring, this afternoon was a beautiful oasis of pure happiness and connection.”
— Jamie Butler, United Servants for Jesus
For Shinobu May of the USFJ team, the day was a powerful reminder of what can happen when people come together with a shared purpose.
“Everything came together as God was guiding us from all sorts of directions. Seeing how happy and excited those girls looked—that was all we wanted from this. We wanted them to know that they are daughters of our mighty King and they deserved feeling special. They got to create such a wonderful memory together. We are so thankful for every supporter because we couldn't have done it without any of them.”
— Shinobu May, United Servants for Jesus
The event also left a lasting impression on the Sunrise staff who witnessed firsthand the joy it brought to the girls they serve every day.
“The tea party was such an amazing experience for the girls. Watching them walk into an event created solely for them—girls who too often feel forgotten—and seeing them reminded that they are loved, cherished, and, above all, worthy was simply awe-inspiring.”
— Liz Sisney, Glen Dale Center Direct Care Counselor
Sisney was equally moved by the incredible generosity of the community.
“Knowing that so many people volunteered their time and talents just to make our ladies feel special made me incredibly proud to be a part of it. From the beautiful venue and food, to the speakers, the team who did their hair and makeup, and everyone who simply showed up to support and celebrate them, every person played a part in creating a day I don't think any of us will ever forget.”
— Liz Sisney
As the afternoon came to a close, the smiles remained.
“The girls were absolutely glowing. I'm pretty sure the staff were almost as excited as they were. Watching our girls realize that an entire room full of people showed up for them is something I'll carry with me for a very long time.”
— Liz Sisney
Events like this tea party remind us that healing often begins with something as simple as being seen. Through kindness, compassion, and the unwavering support of volunteers, donors, and community partners, Sunrise Children's Services continues to create moments that restore confidence, build hope, and remind every child in its care that they are never forgotten.
Sometimes the greatest gift isn't the tea, the beautiful venue, or the elegant dresses. It's knowing you belong. It's discovering that an entire community believes in you, celebrates you, and wants you to know you are deeply loved—not only by those around you, but by Jesus Christ Himself. For the girls of Sunrise Children's Services, that message may have been the most unforgettable gift of all.
Sunrise Children's Services extends its heartfelt gratitude to United Servants for Jesus (USFJ) for sponsoring this special event, Busy Bee Luxe LLC for coordinating the catering and program, The Haycraft Venue for providing such a beautiful setting, and the many volunteers, donors, speakers, photographers, hair and makeup artists, and community members whose generosity made this unforgettable afternoon possible.