Autumn West provides individuals who are homeless and experiencing a mental illness immediate shelter and support. Case management services are provided to the residents as they transition from shelter into permanent supportive housing. You Are Special provides birthday cakes for individuals staying at Autumn West. It is heartwarming to see the look of surprise and joy when residents are presented with a birthday cake. The birthday cake helps build a sense of community when residents come together to share their cake. The birthday cakes show that someone cares and that an individual is valued as a human being. In one instance, an older gentleman started to cry. He stated that this was the first time anyone had ever celebrated his birthday.

— Mary Z., Autumn West

I just wanted to thank you and all of the amazing bakers who work so hard to help us celebrate the birth of every woman and child we have in our program. So many times, women come here feeling completely demoralized; they’ve been told they are worthless, terrible mothers; that they should never have been born. So, for them to get the treat of a special cake, that somebody made just for them – it’s a beautiful thing.

— Beth B., The Women’s Center (Waukesha)

Thank you for taking the time to bake cakes for our clients. This brings so much joy and smiles to our clients and their children. Please know that you are a part of someone experiencing the first birthday cake they ever receive in their life!!!

— Jenny D., Meta House

It is an honor to work with you all. Thank you for everything you do for our folks.

— Nichole W., Community Advocates — Project Bridge Program

You Are Special has brought so many smiles to children and families faces on their special day! Families appreciate that a volunteer took time to personalize a birthday cake for their child. Most families would not be able to make this possible without the generosity of You Are Special. The look on the children’s faces when they receive a personalized cake is priceless! This organization really does make children feel they are special.

— Kerri M., Safe Babies Healthy Families

Thank you, Mary, and all the amazing bakers in your group for their generosity, kindness, thoughtfulness, and dedication to the families in our program. You are all the best.

– Andrea F., Safe Babies Healthy Families

Mary thank you so much for the cookies. Your staff is so awesome in all that they do for all of the shelters and group homes. We as believers know that we are to show love one for another throughout the year. However, those who are without Christ get to experience his Love through what your ministry does every day.

— Mary Brock, Program Manager, House of Love Youth Homes, Inc.