Supporting Students, One Dessert At A Time

Before I jump into Spinato's and the Back-to-School Drive benefiting A New Leaf, I'd like to tell you about some of the people who make that organization so special—specifically Thomas Oakes, A New Leaf's Program Manager for La Mesita Support Services.

I met Thomas a little over a year ago when I was dropping off some candy for Bridget Talty, Senior Community Engagement Coordinator, and truly one of my favorite people in the world. If you've ever had the pleasure of meeting Bridget, you know how her gentleness and kindness lift a room.

Thomas was just starting at A New Leaf, and Bridget wanted to introduce us to one another. Now, Thomas stands a little over 6 feet tall, depending on what shoes he's wearing, and some might even say he's a bit intimidating at first glance (in the way tall people can seem). But honestly? The minute you meet him, any of that disappears. Instead of being intimidated, you feel like giving him a big hug. He has a warm, friendly smile and a kind disposition that instantly makes you feel like you're talking to someone who's deeply grounded and good. Not to mention, anybody who dresses up like Guy Fieri for Halloween is a legend; I knew Thomas and I would get along just fine.

I asked Thomas to take over our blog post for the month of June. He's closer to the work and the families, and I think his words will hit home in a way that only someone walking beside these kiddos every day can offer.

"Working at A New Leaf, I've had the chance to witness so many incredible moments of kindness, but one that has stuck with me the most was during a back-to-school drive with Spinato's. One of the most impactful moments for me was helping hand out the backpacks that Spinato's donated. Watching the kids light up when they received a brand-new backpack was incredibly special. And when they unzipped them to find they were filled with school supplies, their excitement grew even more."

"It's hard to overstate how much something like that means to a child. There's a noticeable difference in their confidence. On the first day of school, seeing those same kids walking off to class with their heads held high, feeling prepared and proud really drives home the importance of what we do and how much of a difference donations like Spinato's make."

"Spinato's has been a proud partner of A New Leaf since 2015, and their support has gone far beyond school supplies. The Spinato's team has been involved with Boo Bash and have actually elevated that event to include dinner and costumes for all kids. They have served dinner at East Valley Men's Center (EVMC), they have done a back-to-school drive, they have donated food for program special events, and they have professionally coached us on how to improve EVMC's kitchen. Spinato's has done a cooking class at our La Mesita Apartments, and they have sponsored a pizza cooking party for the La Mesita children."

"Spinato's is truly a part of this mission with us, every step of the way.  I'm so grateful for everything Spinato's has done for the people we serve. Partnerships like this are the heart of what makes A New Leaf's work possible. Thank you, Spinato's, for being there for our kids, for our families, and our future."  Thomas Oakes

Reading Thomas' words reminds me how important this partnership truly is. It always feels a little uncomfortable to be recognized, especially when the real praise belongs to A New Leaf and the amazing team that brings their mission to life every single day. We're just grateful to stand alongside them and support in whatever way we can.

For the month of June, we'll donate a portion of all dessert sales to support A New Leaf. That means whenever you order something sweet, you're helping a child start the school year with the tools and confidence they need to succeed.

From our classic Tiramisu, rich and fudgy Brownie Bella, Red Velvet Tortines, to smooth and creamy Cheesecake, crispy Cannoli with a hint of orange in the cream, and let's not forget, Nicole's legendary Chocolate Chip Cookies (trust me on these!), every sweet treat you order helps support a cause that lifts families right here in our Arizona communities.

Spinato's has been rooted in this community for 51 years. Serving outside our walls is one of our core fundamentals, and giving back is how we say thank you for all the support our guests have given us over the decades.

So come in, share a meal, and treat yourself to dessert, knowing that what you enjoy also helps a kid smile a little brighter on their first day back to school.

With gratitude,

~Jaime Spinato

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