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Motion for Kids 2020: Celebrating the Holidays during COVID-19

Hallie Van Duren & Courtney Green • December 18, 2020

Each year, the Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis (BAMSL) and the Bar Foundation, sponsor Motion for Kids, a massive holiday party attended by thousands of children in the foster care system or affected by the criminal justice system.  The children, with their families and caregivers, look forward to attending the party to participate in a variety of games and crafts, visits with Santa, live entertainment, and refreshments.  The children leave with a gift specifically selected for them by a sponsor from the St. Louis legal community.  Fundraising for and implementing the event requires extensive planning and organization for many months in advance.  Many volunteers donate their time in the days leading up to and at the party.  This year, as with just about everything else in 2020, the annual Motion for Kids holiday party required significant improvisation and revision.  Even though an enormous indoor gathering was not feasible this year, the BAMSL staff and volunteers were determined to put together something special for these children in what has been an especially difficult year.


Attorneys Hallie Van Duren and Courtney Green were both on committee for this year's event.  The Motion for Kids committee began making plans for the party early in the fall, hoping that some type of party with safety modifications could still take place.  A venue was reserved to hold a drive-through event for the families where we could still provide the children with entertainment, food, craft kits, and of course, gifts.  As COVID rates surged and stay-at-home orders took effect, it became clear that even the modified drive-through party was not possible.  While the whole party experience seems to be memorable and enjoyable for the children, one part that seems to really bring happiness is receiving their gifts, selected and purchased for them from their wish list.  For many of these children, it may be the only gift they receive this holiday season.  Although the pandemic has prevented many events throughout this year, the committee was committed to providing gifts to these children despite the roadblocks and barriers presented by COVID-19.


After the decision was made that the drive-through event had to be cancelled, the staff and committee immediately got to work making plans.  Each volunteer worked closely with agency partners, who provided information for children recipients in order to facilitate the gift purchasing and distribution.  Sponsors in the legal community purchased gifts for the children and/or made financial contributions for the purchase of gifts. The presents were then sorted and organized by volunteers before being transported and distributed to the families. Because of logistical considerations, some children received gift cards to stores of their choosing. Funds for the purchase of gift cards were raised through donations, purchased by BAMSL, and then distributed through the agency partners. In the end, 1,543 children were able to receive gifts to brighten their holiday season.  The Center for Family Law adopted over 20 children.


It may have looked quite a bit different, as with most things this past year, but thanks to the dedicated volunteers and staff, in a year of disappointment and spoiled plans, their efforts were successful in bringing some much-needed joy to these deserving children.  The Center for Family Law is looking forward being a part of this memorable event next year, and in person!


If you are interested in making a donation to Motion for Kids or participating in next year's event, please contact the firm or BAMSL (www.bamsl.org).

Second Saturday Workshop - 2025 Dates

January 24, 2025
The Center for Family Law is excited to announce the start of its fourth year hosting the Second Saturday Divorce Workshops, providing valuable support and guidance to individuals navigating the divorce process.

Tips for Co-Parenting During the Holidays

By Allison Gerli • December 20, 2024
The holiday season can be a balancing act for all parents, but it can be especially challenging for divorced parents who need to coordinate plans with a former spouse and navigate interactions with new partners. While some stress is to be expected, with careful planning, flexibility, and the right mindset, you can make the holidays smoother for everyone. Here are a few tips to help you manage. Prioritizing the Children. The holidays are a time for children, and their well-being should be the focus of the schedule. Whether it's your first holiday post-divorce or you have had a few years to adjust, there are simple steps you can take to make the season easier for them. Create a Joint Plan. Collaborate with your ex to ensure the children can spend time with both of you without feeling torn. A clear, shared plan helps avoid confusion and conflict. This might involve splitting the day between both households or longer periods of time with each parent to allow for out-of-town travel to visit relatives. It is important that parents are on the same page on what schedule will be followed and that is communicated to the children as a joint plan. Balance Traditions with Flexibility. It is natural to want to keep cherished family traditions, but flexibility is key. Discuss with your co-parent which traditions are most important and find a realistic way to divide them. This ensures that the kids do not feel pressured to choose between one tradition or family, allowing them to enjoy special moments with both sides. Create New Traditions. This is an opportunity to start fresh. Let go of old expectations and focus on what will bring joy to your current family setup. Whether changing when your holiday meal occurs or coming up with new ways to celebrate with those who matter now, these changes can redefine your holiday experience in a way that reflects your family as it is today. Remember, children care more about spending time with you and celebrating together than about the exact day. [The Right] Communication is Key. Keeping communication focused on the kids can help prevent old conflicts from resurfacing. Keep discussions brief and to the point. Set times to address important matters and confirm plans through a message or email to ensure everyone is aligned and to prevent miscommunication. Involving New Partners. Whether it is you or your ex with a new partner, you should be mindful of how this change can stir emotions and make the situation feel uncertain. If planning to include a new partner in holiday activities, having a conversation with your ex beforehand is best. Discuss your plans for the day and make sure your ex is comfortable with the arrangement. If you are nervous about being around your ex’s new partner, remember that you have the right to decide how much or how little to engage with this new person, all while keeping things positive and calm for the children. Children may also need time to adjust to a new partner, particularly if the relationship is still fresh. Monitor how they are coping and give them space to process these changes. Do not force interactions, and if possible, let the relationship evolve naturally. Spending Time with Former In-Laws. Another challenge during the holidays for separated parents is dealing with ex-in-laws. Seeing them may feel awkward, but it is often necessary for the children's sake. If spending time with your ex-in-laws feels too emotionally challenging, be honest with yourself and them. It is okay to politely decline an invitation if it being there would cause too much stress. Regardless of how you feel about your ex-in-laws, remember that ex-in laws are still important figures in your children’s lives, and it is often best for the kids if you maintain a relationship with them. Encourage your children to spend time with their grandparents or other relatives from your ex’s family when possible. Remember even when feeling frustrated, remind yourself that cooperation between parents benefits the children, making these moments more manageable.

Trivia Night for a Cause: Supporting Children Impacted by the Criminal Justice System

December 18, 2024
(This article was originally posted in November 2024 by Courtney Green on the website of The Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis and can be found here .) Every year, a heartwarming and competitive event takes place that not only tests participants’ knowledge but also makes a significant impact in the lives of children affected by the criminal justice system. The annual Motion for Kids Trivia Night hosted by BAMSL’s Young Lawyers Division, has become a beloved tradition, blending fun with philanthropy to raise funds for the Saint Louis Bar Foundation’s Motion for Kids holiday event aimed at providing a magical holiday experience for children in the Metropolitan St. Louis area, most of whom are currently in foster care. A Night of Fun and Philanthropy The 2024 trivia night will be held at the Parkway United Church of Christ and draws participants from the St. Louis legal community, along with friends, family, and colleagues to compete in a lively atmosphere filled with friendly competition. The trivia night is made possible by sponsors in the legal community who play a vital role, providing financial backing and in-kind donations that help cover costs and enhance the evening’s festivities. Additionally, gracious volunteers and members of the Young Lawyers’ Division donate their time to help organize the event and ensure its success. Adding in a twist each year, the trivia night themes have ranged from the 90’s to “The Eras tour”. This years’ theme is a spooky, legal-adjacent: “Whodunnit? Beyond a Reasonable Doubt.” As the trivia rounds unfold, teams will battle it out to compete for bragging rights (and potential prizes). The questions are crafted to be both challenging and entertaining, ensuring that everyone, from trivia novices to seasoned experts, can contribute. Silent Auction, 50/50 Raffle, & Games Galore One of the highlights of the evening is the silent auction, featuring an array of enticing items donated by generous St. Louis based businesses, community members, and local firms. Ranging from gift certificates to tickets for local sporting events, attendees can bet big on items, knowing that every item raised will directly benefit the Motion for Kids holiday event. The auction not only raises vital funds but also showcases the community’s creativity and generosity. Additionally, there are other opportunities to show support for the Motion for Kids event at the trivia night, including a 50/50 raffle, and mini-games in-between rounds, which are sure to stir up excitement. The proceeds raised from these games will also be given directly to Motion for Kids. Impact on Children’s Lives The funds raised during trivia night play a crucial role in making the annual holiday party a reality. The Motion for Kids event provides a joyful experience for children who often face significant challenges in their young lives. For many of these children, the holiday party is one of the few occasions where they can experience the warmth of community, receive gifts, and enjoy festive activities in a safe and welcoming environment. BAMSL volunteers work tirelessly to create a magical atmosphere, complete with decorations, games, and a visit with Santa Claus. The smiles on the children’s faces during the party serve as a reminder of the positive impact the community can make when it comes together for a common cause. A Community Effort The Young Lawyers’ Division Trivia Night is more than just a fundraising event; it’s a testament to the power of community. Local firms, businesses, individuals, and organizations come together to ensure that children impacted by the criminal justice system feel loved and supported during the holiday season. The success of this event highlights how collective efforts can bring joy and hope to those who need it most. It is the Young Lawyers’ Division goal to not only raise money for the Motion for Kids holiday event, but to encourage a sense of accomplishment and commitment from trivia night attendees for the role they have played in the lives of these children. Trivia Night has become a cherished tradition, one that reinforces the message that together, we can create a brighter future for our most vulnerable children.
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