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Spreading joy, one smile at a time

Healing through kindness

A group of young children and two volunteers are playing together outdoors, holding hands

Ways We Make an Impact

Sharing love in action through kindness, presence, and compassion.

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Storytelling & Reading Circles

Volunteers read books, act out stories, or host “choose-a-story” sessions that help kids escape into joy and creativity.

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    Buddy Support & One-on-One Time

    A volunteer spends individual time with a child who needs extra emotional support, friendship, or simply someone to sit beside them.

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      Arts, Crafts & DIY Workshops

      Painting, drawing, bracelet-making, slime, puppets, card-making, and other hands-on activities that allow self-expression and fun.

        Volunteers

        Smiles for Healing is powered by a loving team of volunteers who dedicate their time, creativity, and hearts to bringing joy to children in hospital care.

        Our volunteers don’t bring donations — they bring presence, imagination, and genuine compassion, transforming ordinary hospital moments into memories of laughter and connection.

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        Founder & Program Director

        Julia Alvares

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          Photography & Media Lead

          Izabela Tonetti

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            Scheduling & Hospital Liaison Lead

            Rafaela Marx

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              Volunteer Logistics & Training Lead

              Manuela Caldas

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                Family Care & Emotional Support Lead

                Deborah Veloso

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                  Child Engagement & Interaction Specialist

                  Rachel Veloso

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                    This Project Honors A Legacy

                    This project carries a special name and a beautiful story.​

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                    The Smiles for Healing Foundation was created by Julia Álvares and her best friend, Felipe Pitelli. Felipe was part of every step in the planning and vision of this project.

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                    Felipe passed away before seeing the project come to life, but his kindness, laughter, and love continue to guide everything we do.

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                    Today, every visit, every smile, and every moment of joy is dedicated to Felipe’s memory — a reminder that love never truly fades.

                    Our Mission

                    The Smiles for Healing Club is dedicated to uplifting hospitalized children and their families, promoting emotional healing through storytelling, music, and games. Our volunteers foster connections to spread joy in pediatric wards.

                    ✨ “Children don’t need much to be happy, just someone willing to smile with them.” - Felipe Pitelli.

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