Monthly Donor Spotlight: Travis & Lynzey Gibbons

For Giving Tuesday this year, we’d like to spotlight a couple of our monthly donors. Meet Travis and Lynzey Gibbons, passionate supporters of Wedgwood’s mission. Lynzey, a member of Wedgwood’s NextGen board, also serves as a Real Estate Manager at Kamps Pallets. Meanwhile, Travis holds the role of Senior Account Manager at Carnegie.

How did you discover Wedgwood?

Lynzey: “Back in 2010, I was a student at Grand Valley, and as part of an organization bringing nonprofits to campus, and I had the opportunity to choose one. I remember thinking, ‘What truly breaks my heart, and who is actively working to address that? Human trafficking came to mind quickly, leading me to the Manasseh Project in 2010. The leader at the time, Andy Soper, was truly phenomenal.”

Travis: “My introduction to Wedgwood was largely through Lynzey, but I vaguely recall hearing about the Manasseh Project before I knew Lynzey.”

Why is Wedgwood’s mission important?

Lynzey: “I believe Wedgwood’s impact stems from its continuous evolution and proactive approach in addressing the community’s most pressing needs. Like, how could we not support an organization that is tirelessly working to make a difference? Wedgwood is so much greater than just the Manasseh Project. It’s a holistic way to support kids and families, which is important to us. I think the better question would be.., “Why wouldn’t we support them?” There are so many reasons to support Wedgwood.”

Travis: “Every time Lynzey returns from a NextGen Board meeting, the enthusiasm is palpable—updates on new initiatives and evolving strategies. Witnessing the flexibility, adaptability, and constant evolution of Wedgwood in addressing diverse and critical needs is truly inspiring. The organization consistently finds innovative ways to serve its committed population, adapting to various constraints and barriers.”

“Attending events and hearing about the Wedgwood staff reinforces the belief that these individuals are saints. Their dedication to impacting the lives of children facing extreme challenges is nothing short of amazing. It’s awe-inspiring to see these dedicated individuals choose a path of such profound impact, a calling that not everyone can heed. Wedgwood’s ability to assemble an extraordinary team, doing exceptional work, is something I deeply appreciate and admire.”

Why do you feel called to give monthly?

Lynzey: “Giving at any point in time is fantastic but when we give monthly, it’s an incredible privilege for us because we get to feel like we’re walking alongside by foot and that’s an amazing gift.”

Travis: “Knowing that we are a part of the mission of Wedgwood’s every month, it feels like we are doing what we can with what we have to not only support the mission but to further the mission.”

What would you say to someone who is considering giving to Wedgwood?

Lynzey: “Just do it. It’s amazing. Being part of this organization fills me with excitement. In my opinion, they are doing some of the most important work, showing love to people so well. Why not be a part of that?”

“Giving at any point is a wonderful thing. However, contributing monthly keeps the mission at the forefront. Feeling the impact regularly through gifts serves as a fantastic reminder in your bank account. Moreover, it acts as a reminder to keep the staff and the kids in your thoughts and prayers. Seeing that monthly commitment is a powerful reminder to keep Wedgwood’s top of mind.”

Travis: “A community only works when we all give what we have, and our talent may not be to give directly to the kids, and that’s okay. If you have financial stability, giving a little bit of what you have to others is perfect. Whether it’s time or contributions to the community and causes you care about, that’s great.”

“The world only gets better when we give a little bit of what we have to others, and Wedgwood is an excellent place to do that. They are engaged in crucial, impactful work at a foundational level in our community. Ensuring that our children have a safe space to grow up, learn, discover themselves, and become contributing members of society is fundamental. So, why wouldn’t you give to Wedgwood?

If you’re feeling inspired by their story and considering joining the ranks of monthly donors, know that you’ll become a vital part of Wedgwood’s mission. By giving regularly, you can help ensure that Wedgwood’s continues its crucial work and keeps changing the lives of children and families for the better.