A year ago, we opened the doors to a new space—one built with intention, possibility and a vision for how we could show up for educators in deeper, more meaningful ways. 

Over the past year, we have worked every day to create a space that was more than just a building, but rather a place to gather that gives us the chance for that vision to come to life in ways both expected and unexpected. Our facility has become more than a place to stop by once a quarter to pick up essential supplies—it’s where teachers gather, where ideas are exchanged, and where support takes on new forms to create moments that remind educators why their work matters so deeply. It has allowed us to expand how we support our teachers, pairing essential resources with unique experiences that restore creativity and spark inspiration. 

One of the most meaningful ways we’ve seen that take shape is through our author events—bringing the voices behind beloved classroom stories directly to the educators who carry them forward. 

Recently, we had the extraordinary privilege of welcoming one of those voices into our space.

Last month, educators gathered in our workshop for a rare experience with Kate DiCamillo,

Last month, educators gathered in our workshop for a rare and deeply meaningful experience with Kate DiCamillo, whose stories have long been a staple in classrooms and libraries across the country while shaping the way students experience reading and storytelling. It was an opportunity made even more impactful as she chose to spend this time connecting directly with educators right here in her own backyard.

In her presentation, “I Think We Have a Little Writer on Our Hands”, Kate shared reflections on her journey as a writer—her earliest memories of writing, the missteps, and the quiet persistence and discipline of returning to the page again and again. From the brave mouse of The Tale of Despereaux to the wonder-filled pages of The Magician’s Elephant, and the wild adventures in Flora & Ulysses, Kate’s stories have always centered on something deeply human; hope, imagination, and the belief that even the smallest voice can carry great meaning. 

Her message was simple, but lasting:  “Read as much as you can, in as many different genres as you can. [It] feels like a no-brainer but took a long time for me to act on this, you have to write something. I started writing 2 pages a day. So that’s where I started. So you read, you write, you have to rewrite, this is something that kids always moan about, but adults moan about [it] just as much. It’s not going to come out right the first time.” 

It was a reminder that writing is not about perfection, but the process of it all–built on practice, persistence, and giving yourself permission to begin. For many educators in the room, that message resonated deeply in the context of their own classrooms. 

As one teacher shared: “The way that she talked about putting in the work—writing a couple pages everyday—and what it actually looks like to have an idea, be inspired and just kind of put it out there. That is what I hope my students do…. I felt like I stumbled onto a grand prize coming to this event because Kate is an amazing author. I’m just so thankful I can be here.” 

And perhaps most powerfully, the perspective of a young student in attendance echoed through the conversation: “I like the idea of carrying around a journal, looking around, to get ideas to make my own book!” 

Moments like these—where inspiration moves from author to teacher to student—are what bring learning to life. Each attendee left not only with a signed copy of The Tale of Desperaux, but with something less tangible and far more lasting: a renewed sense of what it means to write, to teach and to believe in the stories that are waiting to be told.  As we continue to grow into this space, experiences like this are becoming a meaningful part of how we support educators—not just with supplies, but with creativity, inspiration and connection.

Slumberland’s 40 Winks Foundation, in partnership with KINF, is helping transform the everyday realities of students

Slumberland’s 40 Winks Foundation, in partnership with Kids In Need Foundation (KINF), is helping transform the everyday realities of students by addressing one of the most overlooked barriers to learning: a good night’s sleep.
For many students, challenges outside the classroom—like not having a bed of their own—can quietly impact their ability to focus, engage, and thrive. Through this innovative collaboration, teachers are empowered to directly support their students, connecting them with a simple yet life-changing resource.
What begins with a bed quickly becomes something more: renewed energy, greater focus, and a student who can fully show up each day ready to learn.
This partnership is a powerful reminder that when we remove barriers beyond the classroom, we unlock potential within it. Click to Read the Full MN Star Tribune Story

April is Volunteering Month

What you do may seem simple on the surface: packing backpacks, sorting supplies, showing up for a shift after a long day. But the impact goes far beyond those moments.

Because of you, a student walks into the classroom feeling prepared instead of anxious.

Because of you, a teacher has one less burden to carry.

Because of you, dignity, confidence, and possibility take root in classrooms across the country.

That’s the power of volunteering—and it’s something worth celebrating.

This month, we’re honored to spotlight the voices of our volunteers through a special video, where they share—in their own words—why they choose to show up. Their stories are a powerful reminder that small acts, done consistently, build something extraordinary over time. 

To every person who has given their time, energy, and heart to Kids In Need Foundation – Thank You

And if you’ve ever wondered whether volunteering truly makes a difference, their answer is clear: it does. Every hour matters. Every set of hands matters. Every person becomes part of something bigger.

Whether it’s your first time or your fiftieth, whether you come on your own or with others, whether you have an hour or a full day—your time can help ensure students and teachers have the tools they need to learn and grow into their full potential.

Because this work isn’t just about school supplies.

It’s about showing students they are seen.

It’s about reminding teachers they are supported.

It’s about building a community where every child has equal access to quality education. 

Join us. Volunteer today and be part of the impact.

Teachers! We see the care, creativity, and dedication you pour into your classrooms every single day—and during Teacher Appreciation Week, we want to celebrate you. We know how often you go above and beyond, even filling in the gaps out of your own pocket, and we are endlessly grateful for the difference you make in your students’ lives.

As a small way to say thank you, we’re excited to be sharing special giveaways on our social media all week long, made possible by our incredible partners Five Below, Shane Co., Yoobi, and Freddy’s. It’s one more way we’re working to support you and bring a little extra joy to your week.

Follow along, join the celebration, and know that everyone at Kids In Need Foundation is cheering you on. Your impact is immeasurable—and we’re so honored to support you, not just this week, but all year long.

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