Once again, we were able to hold a smaller event, and take a group of kids to a special early screening of Pixar’s newest film, Elio!

It’s pretty crazy—and amazing—that in less than ONE MONTH, we’ve already managed to do three events. That’s easily the most we’ve every done in such a short period of time, and it’s all because of the incredible support we’ve been getting since our return.

This time around we worked with the awesome folks at Alliance For Children, who we’ve partnered up with a number of times over the years. On top of getting to enjoy the film before it’s release (thanks again to our awesome, local Disney Representatives), the kiddos were able to snag up all the snacks they wanted. Because of the excellent support we’ve gotten on our general/Superman fundraiser, we were able to give every attendee a theater gift card to use at concessions.

Again, it’s hard to describe the look on these kids’ faces when you tell them they can pick out any candy/snack that they want. They just aren’t used to having that option and it’s pure giddiness when they run over to the counter to place their orders.

I’m also happy to say that we, once again, had a couple of first-timers in the group as well. Kids who’ve never had a chance to experience a movie in the theater setting. Needless to say they were blown away. I remember hearing one of the littler ones gasping as she walked into the actual theater; awestruck at the size of the screening. She couldn’t stop staring even as her guardian was trying to pull her along to get to their seats.

Things like that are why we do this, and the overall experience was a blast for everyone.

The crowd loved the movie. In fact, I loved the movie so much I even worked up a review over on my old site to rave about it. Beyond that, however, the message behind Elio was particularly poignant for our group. The core of the film is about Elio’s desire to fit in. To find a place not only that he “belongs,” but is wanted and accepted. His loneliness drives much of the story forward as he ultimately comes to terms with his grief and place in the world—our world.

Like the film’s titular character, many of the kids we brought come from displaced homes or feel out of place. Too often, the circumstances beyond their control leave them feeling like outsiders, even though there’s absolutely nothing wrong with them.

It’s why we believe movies are so important: it gives kids a chance to just be regular kids like everyone else. For two hours, they can just enjoy themselves and not have to worry about feeling different.

Again, we cannot thank you enough for your support in helping to make these recent events happen. We’re still inching towards our main goal on our Superman fundraiser, so if you can, take a couple minutes to head over to our GoFundMe page and give it a quick share.

Now…onto the next event!