2016 Top-Rated Nonprofit

First Chance Foundation

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Nonprofit Overview

Causes: Children & Youth, Children & Youth Services, Human Services, Youth Development, Youth Development Programs

Mission: Our Mission is to financially and physically assist other non-profit organizations with the nurturing and development of disadvantaged children.

Community Stories

37 Stories from Volunteers, Donors & Supporters

MrsTruesdell, General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

08/18/2015

First Chance Foundation is an extraordinary organization! They collect toiletries and school supplies to provide to kids in need. These basic items are so important but often overlooked because they aren't "fun" to donate, but that doesn't stop First Chance! My favorite thing that First Chance Foundation does is throwing birthday parties for kids who otherwise would do without. They even tailor it to the child's (or teen's) taste in food, colors, and cake theme! First Chance Foundation also supports other child-focused nonprofits. They really have a far reach! Anyone who supports First Chance Foundation can be confident that his/her donation will really make a difference!

cswin Board Member

Rating: 5

11/01/2016

First Chance Foundation is making a real difference in the lives of children who have been abandoned, abused, or neglected. They do more than just raise money to support other non-profits on the front-line of helping disadvantaged children. They seek out specific projects to ensure completion. They are great stewards of the financial resources their donors provide.

kyanann Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/31/2016

First Chance Foundation is a wonderful organization that continually gives back to the community. They provide opportunities for children who are in need, whether it be celebrating a birthday or supplies for a new school year. This organization always ensures every child is taken care of. I am so proud to witness and be a part of their efforts to bring children hope.

Jeff134 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/28/2016

First Chance Foundation is by far the best organization of this type I have had the pleasure of working with. They do more for children and other nonprofits in the area dedicated to helping children than one could imagine. If you even consider giving of your time, talents, and money, please consider this organization as a top contender and one worthy of what you have to offer.

Writer Client Served

Rating: 5

10/28/2016

First Chance Foundation has been instrumental in helping Stand Up for Kids/San Antonio Chapter by donating items that are critical to us. We could not assist the homeless kids on the streets of San Antonio without the generosity of First Chance Foundation. Heather and her husband have gone above and beyond to help us with food, and donations that we are constantly in need of. They help us to do the work we need to do on the streets to help homeless kids in San Antonio.

Tammy141 Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/28/2016

First Chance Foundation is truly an unique organization dedicating 100% of their funds raised through donations and fund raising events through out the year to financially and physically assist other non-profit organizations, who help abandoned, abused, neglected and under privileged children. I have had the privilege to know and work with the founders of this organization. Not only do they give their time and efforts to First Chance Foundation, but I also know them to be involved with the San Antonio Livestock Expedition and Valero Texas Open. All for the Kids... First Chance Foundation invests in Our Future!

KatyB Donor

Rating: 5

10/28/2016

First Chance Foundation is a wonderful organization serving the abused and abandoned children in the community. They have multiple programs from filling a basic need for children in shelters to providing them special moments that will last them a life time. They are truly angels on earth watching over God’s children.

lbird41 Client Served

Rating: 5

10/09/2016

First Chance Foundation has graced SJRC Texas with their presence now for almost a year providing Birthday Parties for our 38 youth on campus. When I say Birthday Party, that's exactly what I mean. First Chance comes out before the party and sets up to ensure each child has a unique and tailored birthday just for them. There are balloons, streamers, cake, ice cream, games and fun. Heather from First Chance has made positive connections with our youth as well as the staff that assist her with the parties. When she is seen on campus she is not just the "Birthday Lady", she is Heather " the wonderful person who made my birthday special". I can not express the joy and happiness that radiates from the children as well as Heather when these parties are in full swing.

apagel Client Served

Rating: 5

10/07/2016

The First Chance Foundation is truly an extraordinary nonprofit! I am the Program Coordinator for non-profit that houses 38 children in fostercare. The First Chance Foundation throws birthday parties for each one of our children on their birthdays and provides them with dinner, cake, decorations, games, and presents. For many of our children this is the first time they have had a birthday party or even felt special on their birthday. The First Chance Foundation goes above and beyond to make birthdays special for all of our 38 children! We are so thankful for the amazing opportunity that they are providing!!

lshepherd1084 Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

10/07/2016

I am the director of a non-profit that houses 38 children in fostercare. For years, First Chance Foundation has come along beside our organization to provide unmet needs to our children. This year they have decided to provide a birthday party and gifts for each child on our campus. This is simply something that our children have NEVER experienced. And as if that wasn't enough, FCF has decided to completely renovate our recreation room so that the children have a place to go and relax and take a break from their daily routine. We are blessed beyond words to have FCF as our community partner!!

Writer General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/06/2016

First Chance Foundation is led by wonderful and dedicated founders and volunteers. There focus is on assisting other charities in raising funds and supplies to help children in need. This is a unique niche that is very underserved. We have recent first hand knowledge of their help as our business was assisting a local radio station with a kids school supply drive for disadvantaged children in the San Antonio area. We are a local independent business and our friends and customers were dropping off supplies that we in turn took to the drop off location. We were doing OK but when First Chance Foundation found out about our effort they volunteered to bring supplies and their contribution more than doubled what we had collected! We could not express our gratitude enough for their help! We have become supporters of First Chance Foundation and their mission.

Writer Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/16/2015

First Chance is an amazing organization dedicated to make a difference in our community and the world. It provides disadvantaged kids with the necessities they need to succeed whether it's toiletries, a backpack with school supplies, or a birthday party. It's making an impact in the lives of every child they encounter. It's true light in the world.

Sally60 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

11/04/2014

First Chance Foundation is an incredible Non Profit organization for Children in Need. No child should ever be without. First Chance supports other Non profit organizations as well as helps local children in need. The kindness and sincerity of this organization is above many. You honestly would be hard pressed to find another non profit organization who goes above and beyond as this organization does. Its all from the Heart! Its so awesome to hear about the smiles on the kids faces when they receive the every day items that our children are so use to having. These kids do not have, hard to imagine not having toiletry items, hair brushes, backpacks for school just simple every day items and to know they are excited to get. Wow. If your looking to donate to an organization this is the one to donate to. Every cent counts so there is never anything to small it all adds up. With your willing to give, First Chance Foundation can go that extra mile to help give kids what they need. In life its about giving not receiving. If you want to full fill your heart try giving to this organization you heart will thank you as you will know you made a difference in a child's life. How awesome is that. Thank you First Chance Foundation for all you do!

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info4firstchance 11/06/2014

The hearts of everyone involved with First Chance is what makes it all amazing. From wonderful volunteers, and donors, to people that write humbling reviews - we all bring together this circle of love, hope and encouragement for the children. Thank you for your kind words, they really mean a lot to us.

FCFBoard Board Member

Rating: 5

10/31/2014

As a board member, I get the opportunity to see the direct impact our community, friends, family and businesses are able to make in the lives of hundreds of children each year. However, the impact of their support, through First Chance, doesn't just effect the kids...it sometimes effects the adults involved as well. This is a top-notch group - the board, the volunteers, the supporters, the advisors - and together we truly are making a difference in the lives of children.

Previous Stories

Board Member

Rating: 5

11/29/2012

First Chance Foundation is not only an organization that supports other non-profits, it is one that provides abandoned, abused and neglected children with moments in time to create great memories! We do help supply their basic needs, but it is the times when volunteers reach out to be mentors, or when we grant wishes from the children's wish lists that make a difference. Those are the times that are the most valuable and most important to First Chance as an organization.

Cynthia82 Client Served

Rating: 5

10/31/2014

This organization is all about having Angels on earth. First Chance is right there to come in and help in any way they can. These volunteers don't think twice when children are in need. Whatever the need, they try and help with a yes! One of my families was in need and this organization within 24 hours was there to help, support and provide, giving a single father of 4 the extra strength needed to push and push through. Thank you First Chance Foundation for being the light tha shines brightly in so many lives.

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info4firstchance 11/06/2014

WOW! What can we say to that, but WOW! Serving those in need is a gift we are given. Some may see it as work, but we believe God works through us to reach those He needs helped. So while we don't see ourselves as angels, instead servants, we are glad to know that His light is shining through!

Matt80 Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/31/2014

The First Chance Foundation is a real blessing for children in need! Through their programs to provide school backpacks and comfort packages, as well as the annual Hair-a-Thon, they provide much needed support to foster children and other disadvantaged kids in the community. They are right there to lend a hand for any child in need. I am constantly amazed by the uplifting stories that result from the work of this group! I consider it a personal blessing to be able to work with and support First Chance Foundation.

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info4firstchance 11/06/2014

With encouragement and great volunteers we are able to make a difference. Our programs may reach multiple kids, but our best achievements are found in the faces of the individual ones we help. Thanks for your continuing encouragement!

ChadH Donor

Rating: 5

10/31/2014

Never have we had the opportunity to work with an organization that is filled with such good will and integrity. We know that our donations get to where they need to go and that kids are helped.
We couldn't imagine a better cause or better people leading it.

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info4firstchance 11/06/2014

Without our wonderful donors (like you) we would not be able to make a difference in children's lives. We try our best to make sure donations are put towards things that benefit the children and their future. Which is why we work with reputable organizations when assisting those in need. Thanks for the very kind words!

COHiggs Client Served

Rating: 5

10/31/2014

The First Chance Foundation is professional and compassionate. The are generous with their resources and take their position as a leading Foundation very seriously. They change lives and truly impact the community.

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info4firstchance 11/06/2014

We are glad that our passion is truly seen by those we serve!

Carisa H. Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/31/2014

In addition to volunteering with this organization, I'm also a donor and professional in this field. They are excellent stewards of the goods and dollars received. Earlier this year I was able to see their hard work and commitment to their mission in action. It was humbling and rewarding. The experience helped me recognize the profound impact they are having on the children in our local community.

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info4firstchance 10/31/2014

Thank you. Your words are very humbling. Our hope is that each child we serve feels the love and dedication that each volunteer, supporter, advisor and donor has given to our organization. We believe they do!

Previous Stories

Volunteer

Rating: 5

07/02/2013

I had the opportunity to participate in a volunteer project with the First Chance Foundation. I've volunteered and worked with a variety of non profits and the FCF is first class, top notch and wonderful to work with. From what I observed, they are excellent stewards of the dollars they receive and the volunteer time they are provided with.

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info4firstchance 10/17/2013

To have volunteers and supporters such as yourself an organization has no where to go but UP! So thank you for lifting us up and helping us make a great impact in the lives of so many needy children.

Weslea M. Client Served

Rating: 5

10/31/2014

My experience with First Chance is two-fold. I have participated in one of their activities as a volunteer--making fun fleece winter hats for the kids who need them. And now, as a new foster parent, I have been a recipient of their kind works when Heather showed up at my home with a First Chance Care Package for our new foster child! First Chance is such a true blessing for individuals and organizations who are working to help children in need. The gifts of love, support, time, and resources that First Chance provides for children and the organizations who serve them are generous and unconditional. For First Chance, Heather, and Clint, the children are really all that matter...fulfilling their needs...even down to the smallest of details like socks or hair bows. First Chance is truly an outstanding organization with a heart of gold.

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info4firstchance 10/31/2014

Never say never ... right? Who would've have ever thought that a volunteer of ours would become a recipient? We didn't, but we are so glad you did and that we are able to help. Thank you for your kind words! We look forward to working with you again!(through both assistance and volunteering)

William56 Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/31/2014

I got involved with First Chance a few years ago when they put together about 500 bags of personal items for kids of all ages that have been displaced from a normal family life and are in need of there own personal items. I totally support this Foundation and will keep doing so as they fill a need for many kids in a way others don't do.

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info4firstchance 10/31/2014

Your ongoing support is appreciated far more than you'll ever know.

kelvinkkwilliams General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/31/2014

First Chance Foundation is a wonderful organization. I had the pleasure of working with them at a back to school hair-a-thon for kids in need. The first thing I noticed was First Chance Foundation numerous amounts of gift bags for the kids. The things they do for our youth is amazing. If I could give it 10 stars I would⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐. I could only hope other organizations could be the blessing that First Chance Foundation has been to many children

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info4firstchance 10/31/2014

Thanks for the 10 stars! Even though you couldn't select that many, we'll take what you gave in your post! We look forward to working with you again in the near future.

57ed Donor

Rating: 5

05/29/2014

My donations to First Chance Foundation have been direct or through the Birdies For Charity program in conjunction with the PGA. It has been heartwarming and reassuring to know and to see donations are making such a positive impact in the community. The work of First Chance Foundation is enhanced by the thoughtfulness, planning skill and commitment demonstrated in every project. The results can be seen in the smiles on children's faces and the joy shining forth from their eyes. What a great reward for a job well done.

RFischer Volunteer

Rating: 5

11/20/2013

First Chance Foundation is a true blessing. One only has to visit the FCF website to see what amazing things they are doing for our community and find ways to get personally involved. The hard work of FCF is evident by the smiles, and laughter, of the children benefiting from their tireless efforts.

This Christian organization has been instrumental in helping fill many needs of the under privileged children in our community. I have full confidence and trust in the staff - knowing they are serving with integrity and honesty. It is a privilege, and honor, volunteering on any of their projects or providing financial support when needed.

Congratulations on all you have accomplished- you are very much appreciated!!

LoveBugBundles Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

10/30/2013

The First Chance Foundation is a wonderful organization doing great work to support children in need and serve the community. For the past few years, the leaders of FCF have kindly reached out to our organization in meaningful ways, including care packages to mothers and babies in need, as well as monetary support of our cause. Especially as a small non-profit organization with limited resources, we have been honored by the generosity and good example of the First Chance Foundation.

Neely Marquiss B. Donor

Rating: 5

10/29/2013

It's often daunting when donating to non profits where you hope to see improvement in the world. This is a program I'm confident in, and feel they're completely honest within the scope of all operations. I was made aware of their hard work and dedication, and the children they helped, as a result of my donation and that's important in order to feel like you've made a sound choice. I have no doubt my donation was used wisely and that 100% of it benefited the children they serve. I'm honored to be able to give to this organization.

Dianne C Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/25/2013

I recently volunteered to help the First Chance Foundation pack over 200 backpacks for kids who needed school supplies for school. What a wonderful feeling it was to see all the smiling faces from the kids when they received there packs full of snacks and supplies. First Chance is doing such a great job for our children in need here in San Antonio. Thank you First Chance Foundation!!

Kim G Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/21/2013

My eleven year old daughter and I recently had the opportunity of volunteering at First Chance Foundation for the first time. We helped prepare 225 backpacks filled with school supplies and treats, ready to meet the needs and brighten the future of some very special recipients. The event was very well organized and the excitement from the staff and volunteers filled the room. What a wonderful and meaningful organization of caring people who are making a difference to the littlest of souls whose depth of struggles we may never fully know.

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info4firstchance 10/23/2013

Children helping children is such a blessing. And when a parent guides a child to service it is even more so! We thank you for giving your time to First Chance and allowing us to be a part of your example for your daughter. We hope you continue to assist us and that your daughter grows up to be a lifelong volunteer for First Chance. Thanks for being on our team!

Erika15 Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

10/19/2013

The First Chance Foundation is a phenomenal organization doing great work to better the community. They are compassionate and generous in their support of children in need. Year after year the Foundation has stepped up to help the abused, abandoned and homeless kids we serve. We could not do what we do without their ongoing, dedicated support.

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info4firstchance 10/21/2013

The time you give to the children far outweighs our efforts, but what we do is to help you make their lives and your job a little easier. :) The cohesiveness we have with organizations such as yours makes the time we put into giving and assisting all worth it! Thank you for being on the front-line.

Jodie T. Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/19/2013

Through this organization my daughter and I have been able to directly help other children in San Antonio with simple but useful activities. We helped make no sew scarves and hats for when it got cold. We also helped fill backpacks with school supplies for children headed back to school .

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info4firstchance 10/21/2013

We are glad that you involve your daughter in our projects. You are setting a great example for her. :) Many children in this world don't have the pleasure of having a parent like you. We appreciate the kind words and hope that you continue to volunteer and help us provide for the little ones who are in need.

Carol Anne Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/18/2013

First Chance Foundation is an exceptional entity vital to children in all aspects that are in need of assistance. The Foundation works year round with different projects for these children.
Just within the last year, I was honored to work with them as a volunteer making scarves and hats for the homeless children in the winter and packing backpacks with school supplies for foster children.
The love, compassion, and drive to help God's little lost lambs is awesome. They are very organized, easy to work with, love what they are doing. They will find a way to help someone going way beyond what's expected to achieve their goals. No child is turned away ... in all my years, I've never seen a non-profit Foundation so dedicated and generous with their time, money and talents. Hundreds of children are blessed by First Chance Foundation. I'm so proud to be such a tiny part of it as a volunteer.

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info4firstchance 10/21/2013

Your words are so very kind and much appreciated. We can't do the things we do without dedicated volunteers such as yourself. You always step up to the plate to offer assistance whenever we ask, and even when we don't ask. Your love for the children shows through all that you do for and with us. Thank you!

TaraLR Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

10/17/2013

First Chance Foundation is a crucial resource for children in need in our community. As a leader in a non-profit that First Chance Foundation helps, I can honestly say they go above and beyond to serve. If we need something for our kids (abused, abandoned and neglected youth), they find a way to get it for us. First Chance Foundation is a top notch, well run foundation that follows their Mission with integrity.

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info4firstchance 10/17/2013

We go above and beyond to help those that are on the frontline! Our job is easy, we just want to do our best to help make your job easier...though for you and the others on the frontline, it will truly never be easy. Thank you for the kind words and may we continue to have supporters that allow us to go above and beyond.

candyland1459 Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/17/2013

I have volunteered for First Chance Foundation many times. I'm always amazed at the compassion and love they hold for these children. It is evident that their hearts really go into helping all they possibly can.

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info4firstchance 10/17/2013

Can't thank you enough for the positive review. We thank you once again for your continued support!

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info4firstchance 10/17/2013

We can't thank you enough for the positive review. We hope you continue to assist us in making an impact in the lives of so many children. Your continued support allows us to spread the love we have to give that so many children are missing in their lives. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

Jennifer270 Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/17/2013

My most recent experience with the First Chance Foundation was as a volunteer to help gather and distribute back-to-school supplies and backpacks to children in the San Antonio area. The main distribution location was at an event organized by CPS and Aveda where kids got a free haircut and style to start their school off with both practical and personal items to feel ready and inspired to learn and socialize. The kids looked amazing- the stylists took the time to personalize every look- and the smiles on those kids faces finished it off perfectly. Kids and parents were also thrilled with the backpacks. They were surprised by just how many great goodies were packed in there!

Overall, the experience for me as a volunteer was great, Heather runs First Chance with impeccable organizational skills and is such a friendly, caring and warm individual. She is such a dream to work with that volunteering is a pleasure. She respects volunteers' time and truly appreciates all efforts, no matter how big or how small. I highly recommend supporting First Chance Foundation in any and every way possible!

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info4firstchance 10/17/2013

Thank you so very much! Your kind words mean the world to us. We hope they assist someone else make an informed decision about helping us in the future! So thanks for being a great advocate for us.

John198 Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/17/2013

I would like to say one word about the First Chance Foundation but one word could not possibly describe the selfless folks involved with this organization. I recently volunteered to assist them with a project and was taken aback by the love and kindness involved in what they do. I know some of those involved in the First Chance Foundation so I really should not have been surprised at all. Five Stars does not nearly reflect the impact this particular group can have on any project they are involved with.

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info4firstchance 10/17/2013

We would like to say one word...WOW! Thank you for being one of our wonderful cheerleaders! Without people like you we would be struggling to share our story and to get others to know about us. So thank you for being on our side.

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