Spinato's Pizzeria: Helping People Get a Slice of Happiness! by Mara Northey, Junior Philanthropist

Hi! I'm Mara Northey. I'm a sixth grader at ASU Prep Digital - Khan World School, and I love studying science and humanities. In my free time, I skate on a competitive synchronized ice skating team and rock climb at my local gym. I'm also passionate about serving my community. I was recently honored to receive the Arizona MLK Living the Dream Award for my volunteer work as a Junior Philanthropist in Phoenix.

I have loved Spinato's literally since the day I was born. My parents brought carryout to the hospital to celebrate! Since then, I've grown up eating Spinato's as often as I can. I love the family vibe in the restaurants and how everything tastes so fresh and made with love. My favorite meal is a Mamma's Signature Calzone with sausage added. It's the best!

In 2024, I won a year of free pizza through Spinato's Kindness Challenge. It was so fun visiting different locations and trying new menu items as we used up the gift certificates. A big reason I won was because of my volunteer work with Trevor's Vision, a local 501(c)(3) that serves the homeless community in downtown Phoenix. They provide weekly meals, a twice-weekly shower trailer, and other essential services to people who need support.

I first connected Spinato's with Trevor's Vision when I was collecting shoes for their annual Christmas shoe giveaway. Spinato's was incredibly generous. They donated $1,500 worth of new shoes and provided pizza for 250 people on the giveaway night. The guests absolutely loved it. It meant so much to see people enjoying a warm meal while receiving new shoes.

They loved it so much that now we have "Mara's Monthly Pizza Party" on the first Wednesday of every month! It's something I look forward to because it brings people together and reminds everyone that they are seen, valued, and cared for.

Last month, I created something called the "Box of Dreams." I asked guests to share two things: "Something I need right now…" and "My dream for the future is…" Reading their answers really impacted me. It's helping me think about my next steps and how I can serve in bigger ways.

My biggest dream is to build a tiny home community in Phoenix to help people experiencing homelessness get back on their feet. I believe everyone deserves dignity, safety, and a hand up toward a better future. I'm excited to keep growing, learning, and connecting with businesses like Spinato's to make that dream a reality.

Thank you, Spinato's, for believing in kindness and community, and for making really amazing pizza! Giving back to the community is the number one way to fuel a better future. I'm appreciative to have such an amazing family-run business helping make Phoenix a better place.

💕Mara Northey

If you're interested in seeing what Mara is up to or helping her with her community efforts, check out Climb For Phoenix

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