A Night of Joy, Connection, and Purpose: The 2025 Birthday Shuffle
On April 25th, the UMASS Club lit up with music, laughter, and community spirit as supporters, sponsors, and friends came together for The Birthday Shuffle—an unforgettable evening to celebrate the mission of Birthday Wishes. Together, we raised over $60,000 to bring birthday celebrations to children experiencing homelessness.
But beyond the casino tables and cupcake trophies, what made the evening truly special was the deep sense of shared purpose.
As Executive Director Denell Neuse shared in her remarks,
“The Birthday Shuffle matters so much to me because it reminds us that even in the hardest moments, joy matters. And sometimes, something as simple as a birthday party can mean everything.”
She told the story of Esme, a 9-year-old girl who had lived in three different homes this year. When she received her Birthday-in-a-Box—filled with unicorn decorations, an art set, and a sparkly journal—her mom told us it was the first time she had seen Esme smile in weeks. “It made the shelter feel like a real home, even for a day,” she said.
Board Chair Jay Tata
Jay emphasized how our work supports the whole family—not just the child.
“We don’t just celebrate birthdays—we provide critical emotional and developmental support. We empower caregivers to be part of something joyful, something healing. We help families create memories, rebuild bonds, and remind children they are not forgotten.”
He spoke to the broader challenges of family homelessness in Massachusetts, the trauma that comes with instability, and how Birthday Wishes creates moments that nurture resilience, confidence, and connection.
Why This Event Matters
The Birthday Shuffle is our largest annual fundraising initiative, and the unrestricted funds it raises are absolutely essential. These flexible dollars give us the ability to grow, adapt, and respond to the needs of the families we serve with innovation and care. Whether it’s developing culturally inclusive celebrations, expanding pilot programs, or building strong relationships with our shelter partners, this support is what fuels our ability to move forward.
Thanks to our loyal and growing community of supporters, Birthday Wishes continues to adapt and thrive. Our sponsor partners allow us not only to sustain and grow our operations, but also to plan for a more equitable and impactful future for the families we serve.
“Because of you,” Denell said, “birthdays become something more. They become proof that someone cares, that joy is possible, and that brighter days are ahead.”
To everyone who attended the Birthday Shuffle, supported our mission, or simply believes in the power of celebration—thank you. You are making that brighter future possible. View the Birthday Shuffle Event Photo Album
Thank you to our event sponsors:
