As a mom of two, I know firsthand that raising tiny humans is one of the biggest blessings on earth. While children are a gift, they also come with an abundance of built-in responsibility. For parents of children with special needs, those responsibilities are even greater. 

That’s why Shari Bailey created Laila’s Gift, a nonprofit that provides free birthday and milestone celebrations for children with disabilities. The Maryland-based mom of 10-year-old twins wanted to bring joy to the families of children while eliminating the burden and stress of party planning for busy parents. 

Photo courtesy of Laila’s Gift: Shari Bailey with her husband and twin daughters.

Named after her daughter, Laila, who was diagnosed with Jacobsen Syndrome at birth, Laila’s Gift has helped more than 1,000 families in Maryland. Now the nonprofit aims to brighten even more birthdays nationwide. Each decorated box is hand-delivered and contains party essentials, personalized gifts, and even a cake to make a festive and unforgettable celebration. 

Photo courtesy of Laila’s Gift

I recently spoke with Bailey to learn more about her inspiration behind the nonprofit, what she wants other parents of children with disabilities to know, and more.  

Below, check out our Q&A:

BGG: Why did you start Laila’s Gift?

SB: I was driven to start Laila’s Gift to provide families of children with special needs the essential support and resources they desperately require. While many organizations focus on transition services for older youth, I recognized a critical gap in resources available for young children. It’s not just about helping the child; it’s about uplifting the entire family, ensuring they have access to the tools and emotional support needed to thrive. I believe that every family deserves the chance to flourish despite the challenges they face, and Laila’s Gift aims to bridge that gap.

BGG: Was there a specific moment when you knew that you had to start Laila’s Gift or was it always something in the back of your mind?

Shari Bailey: There was indeed a defining moment that ignited the spark for Laila’s Gift. After navigating my own challenges as a parent of a child with special needs, I was struck by the profound lack of support and resources available to families like mine. This realization fueled my passion to create something meaningful—a beacon of hope and assistance for those who needed it most. I often reflect on how, before the birth of my twins in 2014, I never envisioned starting a nonprofit. However, my journey with Laila unveiled my true purpose, and I felt a deep calling to make a difference in the lives of others facing similar struggles.

BGG: What is your professional background? Did you have experience in non-profit work prior to starting Laila’s Gift?

SB: With over 25 years in product development and quality assurance within the pharmaceutical and medical device industries, I have dedicated my career to helping bring life-changing products to market for patients in need. Little did I know that my greatest patient would be my own daughter, Laila. Prior to founding Laila’s Gift, my experience in the nonprofit realm was limited to volunteering, but my personal journey as a mother has equipped me with the skills and passion necessary to advocate for others. While I may not have had formal nonprofit experience, my experience in business management and commitment to making a difference has propelled my growth in this field.

BGG: What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve faced with Laila’s Gift?

SB: The journey of establishing Laila’s Gift has not been without its hurdles. The biggest challenge has been securing sustainable funding to grow our services and reach more families in need. Nonprofit work often relies on donations and grants and navigating this landscape while ensuring we can meet the diverse needs of families is a constant struggle. However, with every challenge, I am reminded of the importance of community support and the collective power we must create change. 

BGG: What’s been the most rewarding aspect of launching Laila’s Gift?

SB: The most rewarding aspect has been witnessing the profound impact we have on the lives of families. Hearing their stories of hope and seeing their smiles at our celebrations reinforces why I started this organization. There’s a unique magic that unfolds during these moments—children experiencing their first birthday party, friends celebrating together, and families creating cherished memories. Laila’s Gift is honored to be part of so many “firsts,” and it fills my heart with joy to know we are making a difference.

BGG: Did you learn anything about yourself while getting Laila’s Gift off the ground? If so, what surprised you the most?

SB: I discovered that I am not alone in my struggles; there are countless families celebrating in silence, facing similar challenges. The launch of Laila’s Gift revealed just how many families share in the joy of milestones, both big and small. Each victory matters, and together, we can lift one another up and create a supportive community that celebrates every achievement. 

BGG: What can recipients of Laila’s Gift expect? Describe the overall experience.

SB: The Celebration in a Box is a heartwarming experience that brings joy directly to families’ doorsteps. Each box is filled with gifts, balloons, party favors, engaging activities for siblings, resources for caregivers, and, of course, cake! It’s a tangible reminder that families are not alone in their journey and that we are here to celebrate their milestones. The best part? Families do not have to pay a thing to receive this gift of celebration—every Celebration in a Box is made possible through the generosity of our donors and sponsors. 

BGG: What’s been the feedback from families who’ve been fortunate to be recipients of Laila’s Gift?  

SB: The feedback from families has been overwhelmingly positive, often filled with tears of gratitude and joy. Many express how our support alleviates their burdens and fosters a sense of community. Families are deeply moved by the thoughtfulness of our services, and it warms my heart to know that we are bringing hope and happiness into their lives.

BGG:  What do you want other parents with children with special needs to know?

SB: To all the parents out there: you are not alone. There is a community of support waiting for you, and it’s vital to seek help, share your experiences, and connect with others who understand your journey. Having a child with special needs can feel daunting, but we can overcome any battle together. Our children are gifts, and their unique perspectives enrich our lives in ways we may not yet realize.

BGG: What advice can you give parents who have other children in addition to their child with special needs? How important is it to maintain balance?

SB: Maintaining balance is essential for every family. It’s important to dedicate time and attention to all your children, ensuring they feel loved and valued. Open communication about challenges and celebrating each child’s unique strengths fosters a supportive environment. Siblings of children with special needs often embody incredible compassion and resilience; recognizing their kindness and ensuring they have quality time is crucial for their emotional well-being.

BGG: In your experience, what is the biggest misconception about children with disabilities?  

SB: A significant misconception is that children with disabilities are defined solely by their challenges. In reality, they possess unique talents and capabilities that should be celebrated. Laila, for instance, does things her way—she may not walk down the steps like others, but she has found her own path from point A to point B. Her determination inspires me daily, and it’s essential to recognize the incredible strengths that children with disabilities bring to the world.

BGG: How can people get involved and help Laila’s Gift?  

SB: There are numerous ways to get involved and support Laila’s Gift! Whether it’s volunteering your time, donating, or simply spreading the word about our mission, every contribution counts. “Celebrators” are the heartbeat of our organization, and we welcome anyone who wants to join us in making a meaningful impact. Our website provides detailed information on how to get involved, and we would be thrilled to have you as part of our community.

BGG: What does the future hold for Laila’s Gift?

SB: The future is bright and filled with eye-catching confetti! We envision expanding our services and reaching a wider community, developing new programs that provide support and resources to families. With our new national initiative, we aspire to spread smiles and kindness across the nation through our celebrations, creating a ripple effect of joy and support for families everywhere.

BGG: Is there anything that you’d like to add that we didn’t cover?  

SB: I want to emphasize the incredible power of community. Together, we can create a nurturing environment for families of children with special needs. I invite everyone to join us in this mission to make a difference—together, we can uplift and inspire one another, celebrating every milestone and creating a brighter future for all. Let’s celebrate one gift at a time!

For more information about Laila’s Gift, please click here.

Do you volunteer or donate to any nonprofits? If so, how does giving back make you feel?

“Pool Hall” reinterprets the iconic 1991 Levi’s® ad capturing Beyoncé as she takes on the local shark in a high-stakes game of pool while wearing and celebrating Levi’s® products as modern style staples that continue to evolve – embracing bold interpretations and encouraging wearers to make them their own. 

Photo Courtesy: Levi’s®

“There isn’t another wardrobe piece that evokes comfort, modern elegance, classic Americana attire, and nostalgia the way denim does,” Beyoncé said in a release.  “And when I think of all those things, I think of Levi’s.”  She continued, “For the second chapter in our collaboration we had even more fun in reimagining the denim on denim narrative, through the lens of a woman, who can be sexy, bold and a fierce competitor, all at once.  We wanted to celebrate the duality of grace and power.”

The clip shows Beyoncé decked out in a bedazzled denim getup that the Queen Bey pulls off effortlessly. We’re sure that this glittering ensemble will serve as inspiration for the legions of fans who will flock to her Cowboy Carter tour this spring.

Missed the ad? Check it out here:

Do you plan on seeing the Cowboy Carter show?

The city’s tourism bureau is back with its third annual Meet the Mentors program, which was created to help aspiring travel journalists jumpstart their journalism careers.

This coming April, selected participants will receive mentorship from real world travel journalists (like yours truly), visit Greater Palm Springs, and gain priceless tips and information that will help catapult their travel writing endeavors. What’s more, they’ll also work with their mentor to publish their very own piece on the Visit Greater Palm Springs blog.

Time’s running out so act fast!

Now through January 6, 2025, newbie writers are invited to submit for a chance to participate in the program, which will take place in Greater Palm Springs from April 14-17, 2025. Click here to enter.

Good luck and see you there!

Photo Courtesy of Visit Greater Palm Springs

Have you ever visited Palm Springs? If so, what did you enjoy the most?

So, when I was offered the opportunity to tag along on a tour of the 100-year-old theater responsible for sparking kids’ imaginations and opening their worlds to the wonder of live theater, I jumped at the chance.

Offered through Broadway Up Close, the 90-minute tour is a theater lover’s dream come true. For the first time, visitors can get a sneak peek at secret spots throughout the theater, as well as listen to a fascinating oral history.

Photo credit: Mark La Rosa

Hosted by Tim Dolan, an actor and owner of Broadway Up Close, the tour take visitors through decades of history on 42nd Street and share interesting anecdotes, architectural oddities, and more for groups interested in learning the thrilling tale of what came before at the New Victory Theater.

“Tour-goers are in for a treat as we explore the nooks and crannies of this historic theater,” says Dolan. “The New Victory Theater perfectly encapsulates the rise and fall – and rise again – of America’s most famous block.”

My two children have attended countless shows at New Victory Theater. It’s been one of the constant creative art forms and outlets in their young lives.

Not only did I get an up-close-and-personal look at the iconic theater, but my kids also came along too. After only visiting the theater when its seats are filled with little people scrambling about, it was cool for them to see the theater completely empty, and the stage stripped.

Both of my kids enjoyed learning fun facts, seeing rare photos, and checking out spots in the theater that they’d never have access to without this tour.

If you appreciate history, theater, and New York City and are looking for a unique way to spend an afternoon or evening, don’t miss this Broadway Up Close tour.

Tickets go on sale September 13 and are available for $56 for adults and $51 for children ages 12 and younger. They can be purchased online through Broadway Up Close. Please note that reservations are required.

Have you ever taken a theater tour? If so, what did you think? If not, would you be interested in taking one?

Growing up in Harlem, as one of 13 siblings in a Black Muslim family, Johnson shares her unique perspective and experiences through a humorous lens. In fact, she debuted her first one-hour comedy special, Hijabs Off, on Amazon Prime last fall. To say she’s been booked and busy would be an understatement.

Johnson is a regular on Amazon’s original series, Upload, and has made appearances on popular late night TV shows, Late Night with Seth Meyers.  If she’s not on the screen, you can find her hitting the stage as a regular at renowned comedy clubs around the country.   

I recently caught up with the quick-witted comic who boasts nearly a half million Instagram followers, and talked about her recent partnership with Bounty, Saturday morning cleaning routines, Moms Mabley, and more.

Photo courtesy of Bounty

Check out our Q&A below:

Brown Girl Gumbo: You recently headlined a show in New York City in collaboration with Bounty called “Come Clean,” tell me about that partnership.

Zainab Johnson: “My partnership with Bounty was to highlight and create content that shows the cleaning standards for black moms. I think that there are some universal truths that we all know just as black women by way of our black moms when it comes to cleaning. I think Bounty was trying to highlight that and I was very happy to partner with them because I genuinely use Bounty and, I have a black mom.”

BGG: Speaking of cleaning, do you recall those Saturday morning household cleaning routines while growing up?

ZJ: “Yeah, of course. I recall cleaning Saturday morning house cleaning. It’s ingrained in you. You can’t forget it! I was never woken up on a Saturday morning by my mom or an alarm clock. I just heard ‘Sweet Thing’ by Chaka Khan coming from the stereo. I just knew that meant, ‘Oh, it’s time to wake up and clean!

Everybody has their house song. I remember my ex-boyfriend knew every word of Anita Baker’s songs, I would be like, ‘How do you know this? You’re too young to know Anita Baker. He was like, ‘Every Saturday morning that’s the first thing I heard with my mom. When it was time to clean, my mom would be playing Anita Baker.”

BGG: It makes me wonder what non-Black people do on Saturday mornings. Are they blasting music too while deep cleaning?

ZJ: Honestly, they’re probably using Bounty as well. Now, what they got playing in the background and who’s in the house, that ain’t none of our business!

BGG: I know you used to be a teacher. When did you know that comedy was your true passion?

ZJ: Yes, I was a teacher. However, at the time when I was a teacher, I had no idea that I would ever be a standup comedian. I think that I knew after the first open mic I ever did. I wasn’t a comedian, performer, or an aspiring artist. It just was like one day I said, ‘I’m going to try standup.’ It’s like I had the thought that day, went out and tried it that day, and I got confirmation that day. I was like, ‘Oh, this is what I’m going to be doing.’ And I got that confirmation because not that, I was good, but it was a good experience for my first time. It just felt more right than anything else had ever felt.

BGG: What was your motivation to get up there and do it if you had never performed before? What made you say, ‘I’m just going to get up here and try this?’

ZJ: I used to watch a lot of standup comedy and really enjoy it when I was in college and girls would be like, ‘Let’s go to a bar or club,’ and I used to say, ‘I’m going to a comedy show.’ I just enjoyed watching it so much and I really love laughing.

Then in my more adult life, I started being around a lot of comedians. A lot of comedians were like my closest friends. I was at comedy clubs a lot and I started working for someone who’s booking comedians. And so, through that experience I was seeing a lot of the same thing. I was seeing few women in this space and even fewer black women in this space. And I don’t think that that was at the front of my mind, but I think that it just was something happening subconsciously. I was aware of something lacking.

BGG: Tell me more.    

ZJ: Right around the time that I did it [open mic], I was not only working for a booker, but I also had been going out to comedy shows with a more intentional approach, meaning I was really looking to find and appreciate good talent.

I started being very analytical when I watched performers and analytical in a way of rewriting their jokes in my mind. I would understand, I would go through the process of understanding why a joke worked, why one person could get away with saying something and making it funny and another person maybe couldn’t.

It was just all twirling around in my head. And that day that I went to the open mic, I quit my job. Like I said, I was working for a booker, and I knew I didn’t move to L.A to work for someone. Not in that capacity. If I were going to just work a standard job or more traditional job, then I’ll just use my degree. I’ll teach. I loved teaching and there’s a certain level of performance to that too. And I mean, I say this humbly, but I was a cool teacher.

BGG: Do you feel like as a former teacher that you’re still teaching people but now it’s through comedy?

ZJ: Yeah, sure. I’d like to believe that, but the humblest part of me is saying that somebody else can say that.

As a comedian, I expose things through my personal experiences. So, I guess I would say I expose rather than teach. I expose people to my experience and my experience is reminiscent of a lot of experiences that go untold. And so, I strive to do that via my comedy.

BGG: Who were some of the people that you admired before you took that leap of faith and got up there on the stage?

ZJ: I always admired Wanda Sykes, but she felt far removed. She’s somebody on TV, but the people I was seeing in clubs every week were comedians like Bill Burr, Keith Robinson, Dean Edwards, and even Tiffany Haddish. She was the go-to Black girl on the L.A scene before Girls Trip. I used to just see a lot of people in the clubs. These funny people would be killing the clubs, killing the stage, but they don’t necessarily have the major or mainstream exposure. Also, I obviously admired the bigger people like the Dave Chappelle’s and those who we all love.

I’ll never forget, years ago when I first started stand-up, I watched a documentary on Mom’s Mabley produced by Wanda Sykes. I don’t think I’d ever heard of her before, but I knew how interesting and good that documentary was because I was at my mom’s house and younger siblings watched it with me. At the time they were 19, 22, and 6. They all sat down, and we were all fully engaged. It’s like today you ask a lot of people who Mom’s Mabley is, and most can’t tell you.  

BGG: Who or what inspires your comedy today?

ZJ: My comedy is completely fueled by my specific experiences. Obviously, I talk about my family a lot because they are a very large part of my existence. My mom is a great source for humor. As much as she walks through life thinking that she’s not, I recognize a lot of her personality is funny. And I do feel like a lot of times when I’m talking about my family, I am punching up, if that makes sense. They’re the joke, but in a very celebratory way.

BGG: That makes sense.

ZJ: I try my best to do that when I’m speaking in any way about the Black experience, the Black family experience, and the Black female experience. Do you get what I’m saying? I try my best to, even if I’m highlighting what is humorous, I am always trying to celebrate. Yes, this is funny, but this is great.

BGG: Who do you turn to when you need a good laugh?

ZJ: When I need a good laugh, I turn to my siblings and my friends because they’re so funny. Also, my comedian friends Will Vince, Keith Robinson, Monica Saunders, Chloe Hilliard, and Sidney Washington. They just make me laugh nonstop. And again, my siblings. That’s who I turn to when I just need nonstop humor. Sometimes I go to them for the deep therapeutic conversations, and it just ends up being so hilarious.”

BGG: What are your thoughts on cancel culture in the comedy space? What is your take on that?

ZJ: I think that comedians may be the last line of free speech. At least we try, but I do think that some people try to use the cloak of comedy to spew awful things or push a boundary. I say a lot of things that people can get on board with, but I’ve also said things that have rocked somebody’s boat.

I feel like my intentions are always good. My intentions are not to be sexist, racist, xenophobic, homophobic, or prejudicial in any way. Those are some people’s intentions and if those are your intentions, then I do believe we have to put you in time out. But I think that if those aren’t your intentions and your intent is to bring levity to something that is a very real thing in our existence, then you should not be canceled. There must be some room for that.

BGG: What’s next for you? What’s in your plans for the upcoming months or year?

ZJ: In the long term I feel like the sky’s the limit. Not to sound cliche, but my mind is like, ‘What God has for me, I don’t even know it’s if it’s graded in my vision.‘

In the next few months and weeks, I’m wrapping up the last season of Upload. I’m also working on my next hour special. Additionally, I am in development for two shows that are my own creative ideas. So, in a broad way, I’m just continuing to grow, continuing to be fun, as well as being a true and authentic representation for people who identify the same as me. I’m also continuing to expose the people who identify differently than me. I want them to be like, ‘Oh, I like that as well. That’s different than me, but I like that as well and want to open up my experience and existence to more of this.’

*This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

Through masterful puppetry and artful set design, the story beautifully captures the bond between an orphan girl named Aanika (Jimmica Collins) and her beloved baby elephant “Little.” 

Directed by Pam Arciero and written by Annie Evans, the touching performance centers around the unusual pair’s mutual love as they navigate their new worlds. 

Educating audiences on the horrors of poachers, the plight of elephants, and the importance of honoring all living creatures, the production tackles tough issues that little minds can understand and appreciate. The lessons are delicately woven throughout the performance, creating an entertaining experience that is enlightening, not preachy. The show also touches on the power of perseverance, embracing independence and coping with the loss of loved ones. 

These are challenges that everyone will face and this heartwarming production thoughtfully brings them to light. It also focuses on how family can be defined. 

While the messages are impactful and prominent, make no mistake — the wiry puppets are the stars of the show. They effortlessly come to life with every sudden move and gentle gesture. They possess such a strong and dominant presence, that their puppeteers become virtually invisible. 

What’s more, the musical score takes the theatrical journey to the next level. With rhythms that celebrate the sounds of Africa, the story’s authenticity is elevated with every drumbeat. 

If you’re looking for a uniquely educational show that kids ages six and up will enjoy, head to the theater by April 7th for an unforgettable performance. 

For tickets and more information, click here.

What show are you looking forward to seeing this year?

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Believe it or not, shortly after entering, we spotted Spike Lee. Yes, the man behind the exhibit. What’s more, the prolific director was giving Jeffrey Wright, the Academy Award-nominated actor, a private tour. When I approached the accomplished pair, I was hesitant because I didn’t want to disturb them. However, I also didn’t want to pass up the opportunity to introduce them to my son who is already an aspiring director at the tender age of 10. They graciously obliged and offered to take photos and imparted kind and wise words before returning to their tour.

After that unforgettable encounter, we continued making our way through the sprawling exhibition. If you’ve ever visited Lee’s 40 Acres and a Mule Filmmakers headquarters in Fort Greene, Brooklyn, you’ll recognize some of the priceless pieces from there, but also so much more. 

From movie posters to his coveted Oscars, the exhibition boasts more than 450 works drawn from his personal collection including signed musical instruments from iconic artists, prestigious artwork, pop culture memorabilia, and other cherished items.  

The exhibition is separated into several rooms dedicated to different aspects and inspirations behind some of Lee’s award-winning work. For instance, the first part of the exhibit is called, “Black History & Culture.” In this space, historical pieces like Sambo figurines and segregated water fountain signs were on full on display — influences behind his cult classic film, Bamboozled. Other areas housed other treasured pieces from his massive collection like storyboards from Do the Right Thing and letterman jackets from School Daze. Of course, as a major sports fan, there was also a room devoted to his beloved New York Knicks.  

Together they weave a vivid tapestry that thread Lee’s experiences and fuels his creativity and unmatched storytelling. 

If you haven’t made your way to Brooklyn to check out this incredible exhibition yet, you still have time. The exhibition officially closes tomorrow: Sunday, February 11. So, you’ll have to act fast, but I can guarantee it will be worth it. I just can’t promise that you’ll meet the legendary filmmaker and pop culture icon like we were so lucky to do.  

Click here for tickets and more information about the Spike Lee: Creative Sources exhibition at the Brooklyn Museum.

What’s your favorite Spike Lee movie?

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