From our location in Southeast Michigan, we have worked with children and their families from all over the United States. Partnering with Mott Children’s Hospital in Ann Arbor, Michigan, Detroit Public Schools, local Civic Concerns, The Center for Exceptional Families in Dearborn, Michigan and many local shelters and various deserving organizations.

Every dollar is personally accounted for and administered by the two co-founders, Lisa and Mike.  At “Just for Kids” 100% of funds raised go directly to our kids. Unlike other charities, there is zero administrative cost at “Just for Kids”.  We know when our hands get full we can count on family, friends and community to give selflessly.

The wishes granted at “Just for Kids” are not just for kids with terminal illness. Whether they have asthma or cancer any child from a financially compromised family deserves to have a wish granted.  We also assist families with children that have special needs.  These families are dealing with lifelong issues that are easily overlooked.

Some of our past requests have been as simple as…

“I wish I could go out to dinner at Outback Steakhouse with my family”

“I wish I could go to prom”

“I wish I had an airplane ticket to visit my grandma”

“I wish that my mom wasn’t stressed about buying food”

“I wish I had a Halloween Costume” 

Lisa Zimmer knew at thirteen that she wanted to give back to others.   “My family adopted a family in need one Christmas, my mom had me walk up on the porch and ring the doorbell to give them their gifts…  I have never forgotten the feeling I had.  From that moment on I was “dedicated to helping”   Since founding “Just for Kids” in 2001 Zimmer has work tirelessly to make the charity successful, “I never thought I would ever be able to give away one million dollars to children, it truly is a blessing.”

Mike Hopkins has been a lifelong friend to Lisa and Joe Zimmer.  In 2000, at a friend’s birthday party, Lisa spoke with Mike about wishing to be able to have a fabulous event with tons of people that would raise the money for “Just for Kids”.  Mike’s response, “Well, let’s do it!”  He has been hands-on with his involvement ever since.

Mike’s partnership with businesses has brought over $1,000,000 to “Just for Kids”. Through his countless connections and relationships he is the key player in raising funds for our annual dinner and golf outing. 

Angela Carson first became involved with “Just for Kids” in 2007 after helping grant a wish for a family with a terminally ill child. “This family was never going to be able to bring their son home from the hospital, the brothers and sisters wanted a portrait taken with him.” Carson is a world-renown photographer and has been capturing images professionally since 1985.  “It was one of the most fulfilling things I’ve ever done in my life, to give that family their wish.”