Caroline Montague
At a bright young age Caroline recognized a need in her community. “When I was 14 years old, I noticed there were cards left hanging on my church’s Salvation Army Angel Tree in the days leading up to Christmas. All the cards left were from teenagers. My heart hurt knowing there were people my age who would not get Christmas gifts and I felt called to help.” To meet this need – she researched, filed and established a new nonprofit organization: Gabriel’s Gift. Caroline notes, it honors the archangel who delivered the news of baby Jesus. “We wanted a name that reflected the joy of giving and honors the true meaning of Christmas. ”With a mission to support youth in foster care, Caroline set a fundraising goal of $5,000 which she surpassed and used towards Christmas presents for the Methodist Family Health Foundation Christmas List and Salvation Army Angel Tree. The next year, she generated $7,500 – providing gifts to more organizations throughout the holiday season. Methodist Family Health Foundation Executive Director Amanda Smith adds, “Caroline has made an impact on the kids in the care of Methodist Family Health, and she has left an impression on the team. We are so impressed that she chooses to spend her time and talents for the benefit of strangers.”
How does she do it? Despite having a busy school schedule, Caroline takes the time and care to write letter campaigns and plan small pop-up events. “I realized the power of networking and involving other kids. From that, I created a system of hosting at least one fun fundraising event a year and one letter campaign.” She uses her brilliant creativity to innovate new ways to reach out to the public in support. Earlier this year she received gently used clothing for a pop-up thrift shop in Maumelle. With the sport’s popular uprising, she has also pivoted to hosting pickle ball tournaments. She also uses the tools available to her like social media to advocate for Gabriel’s Gift.
Even with the life of a busy teenager, Caroline demonstrates remarkable generosity and civic leadership that inspires her peers. After graduating high school, she plans to attend college and continue to help improve lives around her. “I hope Gabriel’s Gift can be a positive influence in whatever community I am in.” Caroline’s commitment and dedication are a shining example for fellow Arkansans of all ages. “You get the greatest reward whenever you step out of your comfort zone and the reward often exceeds your expectations.”
