Athens, Georgia-based couple Brandon & Carolann Rucker launch a non-profit (501c3) titled WHEN YOU SMILE WE SMILE INC. with a goal of recruiting and catering to students with parents who are incarcerated. They are the owners of Rucker Family Amusement Inflatables and have provided entertainment for several families, local and statewide organizations for years. Raised in marginalized communities and being parents themselves, the Ruckers both know how hard it is raising children alone and how a child may feel isolated after a parent is incarcerated.

“While spending time with my kids I learned that many kids in the neighborhood we lived in had never experienced Six Flags, going out to a restaurant or even a sports game largely because they had one parent incarcerated while the other parent or guardian was struggling to make ends meet”. (Brandon Rucker)

Armed with the understanding that the little things we take for granted can make a huge difference in someone’s life, they took it upon themselves to start taking some of the neighborhood children with them on their family adventures. Seeing the smiles on their faces was contagious and led them to the name WHEN YOU SMILE WE SMILE.

The organization will link children with mentors, take them on trips, work with parents and corporate partners on educational and career goals. They are currently welcoming donors and volunteers who share their passion for inspiring the youth through arts, travel, entertainment, and most importantly by being present.

For more information on donating or volunteering, please contact WHEN YOU SMILE WE SMILE INC at (678) 740-3884.