Glitter in the Garden

A Night that Helps Local Families Feel Supported All Year Long

Meal and snack delivery volunteers: Erin Orbin, Jen Lynch and Kathleen Root.

When a family is facing cancer or another serious medical hardship, everyday responsibilities don’t pause. Meals still need to be made, laundry still needs to be done, and children still need care and attention. The Glitter Guild, a volunteer-run local non-profit founded in 2023, has made it their mission to provide that practical, ongoing support to families in need, spreading joy to them during these difficult seasons, helping ease the daily burdens so they can focus on healing and time together.

On July 30, The Glitter Guild will host Glitter in the Garden at Swan Lake Event Center, benefitting families affected by hardship. This annual fundraising gala continues the momentum of last year’s 365 Days of Glitter event and plays an important role in sustaining the organization’s programs throughout the year.

“Glitter in the Garden is still my favorite memory from my time as part of this organization,” Allison Pickett, part of the Fundraising/Special Events committee, said. “It was so special to be at an event that brought together Glitter volunteers with the families that are directly impacted. The whole night was so uplifting and heartwarming—I can’t wait for Year Two.”

The Glitter Guild was founded on the belief that consistent, reliable help can make a meaningful difference when families need it most. Since 2023, the organization has supported more than 160 local families. Volunteers show up week after week, creating a dependable network of care rooted in compassion and community. From providing weekly meals, laundry services and healthy snacks for the week ahead to taking care of yard work, these simple but impactful acts of service allow families to spend more time together and less time worrying about daily logistics.

“I love the Glitter Girls,” volunteer Patricia Halsey said. “I enjoy making meals for people, and love that I can help someone. I have never had to deal with a long-term illness in my family, [but] I have struggled to make meals when I had three children under the age of five. I knew how welcome and relieved someone else making a meal meant to me and hope I can do that for someone else.”

In addition to weekly services, the organization offers programs like Camp Glitter for children in supported families, as well as seasonal celebrations that bring moments of light during challenging times.

“You aren’t just donating your time or money to a stranger, but to a neighbor or friend,” Pickett said. “It makes the whole experience feel so much more meaningful. Dublin has always been known as a great place to live and raise a family, and the Glitter Guild shows just how amazing the people from Dublin (and now surrounding areas) really are.”

Those interested in tickets for the Glitter in the Garden Event, getting involved as a volunteer, or referring a family who may benefit from support are encouraged to visit glitterguild.org to learn more. Every connection helps extend care to families in our area who need it most, and strengthens the community surrounding them.