Some reminders about generosity come from unexpected places — and sometimes from the smallest people in our community.

One morning on the way to school, Owen, a current student in the Ferncliff Nature Preschool, noticed the Connect. Inspire. Transform. capital campaign sign as he and his mom turned into the Ferncliff drive. He asked what it meant, and when he learned that Ferncliff was working to build new spaces that help children learn, help families in crisis, and strengthen our whole community, something clicked.

He wanted to help.

That afternoon, Owen went home, opened his colorful piggy bank, and gathered all of his savings — $10.87 in coins. He asked his mom for a box to carry them in, placed the bag of coins inside a shoebox, and carried it proudly into school the next morning. With his mom looking on, he walked through the preschool gate and handed the box to his teachers, explaining that he wanted to donate his money to help Ferncliff reach its goal.

No one had asked him.
No one suggested the idea.
His generosity came purely from seeing a need and wanting to be part of the solution — wanting to be a helper.

Owen’s mom shared that this moment didn’t surprise her at all. “When Owen decides he’s going to do something, that’s it — you just say, ‘Okay buddy, let’s go, we’re doing it.’” she said. She recalled how, after spotting the sign, Owen told her, “Mom, they’re almost at their goal… I brought money today. I could donate it.” The decision came straight from his heart.

This is the true spirit of giving.
It isn’t about the amount.
It isn’t about age.
It isn’t even about being asked.

It’s about responding with love when your heart feels moved.

And even in the small, wiggly moments of his interview — sharing his nature name “Bulfrog,” talking about finding mushrooms with Miss Rachel and Mr. John, and describing his love for the creek — you can feel how deeply connected Owen is to this place. Ferncliff is where he explores, learns, grows, and belongs. His gift came from that sense of love and connection.

At Ferncliff, this is exactly what we mean when we talk about our mission to care for Creation, others, and self. Owen lived that mission in a beautiful, unprompted way.

Kindness in action.
A heartfelt gift.
Mission in motion.

Because of donors like you, Ferncliff continues to be a place where children discover confidence and wonder, families find care in times of hardship, volunteers serve with purpose, and communities grow stronger. Stories like Owen’s are made possible because you choose to support this ministry with your generosity, prayers, and presence.

Thank you for believing in this work and for helping create a place where compassion, curiosity, and care take root.

If Owen’s story inspires you and you’d like to continue supporting Ferncliff’s mission, you can give at ferncliff.org/give. Your partnership helps build a future full of connection, healing, and joy.