History
In 2003, Jennifer Krassinger, GiFT's Founder and a Registered Nurse in NICU (Newborn Intensive Care Unit), began recognizing a need among the babies she cared for. Some of their families were unable to get the most basic essentials when it was time for their baby to make the transition from the NICU to home. With help from a NICU social worker, Jennifer set out to recruit family and friends to help one NICU family in need around the holiday season. ​
The effort became a family tradition known as The Holiday Project and support grew each year. In 2010, Holiday Project support surged and this is the point when Jennifer realized that momentum around the effort could be harnessed and benefit NICU families throughout the calendar year.
GiFT began with the launch of our Destination Home program, developed in collaboration with NICU social workers to address this basic gap in service. GiFT became incorporated in the state of Missouri and obtained 501(c)(3) tax exempt status in 2011. GiFT continues to develop and expand the Destination Home program, now serving hundreds of NICU families each year.
Our Team
Jennifer KrassingerFounder & Executive Director Interim Board Secretary | Jenna TwenhafelOffice and Program Coordinator | Alison GreenCase Manager |
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Our Advisors
William HemenwayBoard Advisor Key Volunteer | Laura StinsonChair, NICU Advisory | Stephanie PisaniBoard Advisor Key Volunteer |
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Meredith ChoateBoard Advisor Key Volunteer |
Our Board of Directors
Chris CimarolliBoard President Retired, Nooter Contruction | Suzanne CunaneInterim Board Treasurer Interior Designer, Suzanne Cunane Interiors | Monica MuirBoard Member Attending Physician, Cardinal Glennon Children's Hospital |
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The Reverend David HodgesBoard Member Rector, St. Peter's Episcopal Church | Peter SchweissBoard Member Director of Technology Services, Boys Hope Girls Hope |