March 2, 2019Frisco Enterprise

Jennifer Hull, a Frisco mother of two boys, is co-chairing Family Gateway’s second annual DAY to PLAY on April 27 at Annette Strauss Artist Square. According to Jennifer, “Families will love all the fun activities we have for kids, and it gives parents a way to open the dialog to talk about how other families live and the struggles they may face. It’s also an opportunity for kids to be included in supporting a charity that supports families and kids just like them.”

DAY to PLAY benefits Family Gateway in its mission to provide stability and life-changing supportive services to children and families affected by homelessness.It brings families together for an event filled with activities and discoveries geared specifically to children. From lawn games and yoga to live music and crafts, entertainment is paired with a focus on volunteerism and community service, including a basic overview of the scope of family homelessness in our community. familygateway.org/dtp

What brought you to Family Gateway to serve?

My good friends Stephen Hipp and Jen Fahrenbruch are on the board and shared with me all the wonderful ways that Family Gateway is providing for families in crisis in the Dallas area. 

How have you been involved?

When Jen contacted me about serving as a co-chair for Family Gateway’s second annual DAY to PLAY, I jumped at the opportunity to be able to get more involved with this amazing organization.  My family has also had opportunities to volunteer by serving dinner, assisting with the Holiday Shopping event, and even throwing the kids a dance party hosted by my son, who is a DJ.

What are your feelings about Family Gateway and its mission?

They do an amazing job serving so many families in so many ways. 

How long have you been married?

16 years

How many children do you have and where do they attend school?

Ryan, 12, and Harrison, 10, attend Legacy Christian Academy.

What are things you strive to teach your kids? 

So many things – but I think the top two are to love God and your neighbor.  And I am repeatedly telling them that, yes, your brother counts as your neighbor.

How have you changed since becoming a mom? 

I would like to think I’ve improved my ability to chill out and not stress about non-important things.  I also like to think I have amazing reflexes thanks to things constantly being hurled my direction by my two boys.

What advice do you have for other moms?  

I’m in no position to be offering advice.  I think we place too much value on trying to follow what other people tell us we should be doing.  As long as you’re striving to raise a loving and kind kid, then you’re doing awesome. 

How long have you lived in the area?

I’ve lived in Frisco for 13 years, and it has grown so much over that small amount of time.  I love that it still maintains a small-town community feel while also now having some great restaurants and sporting venues.

What are you goals for the future?

We sit down every year with a group of couple friends to discuss our New Year goals.  My goal the last few years has been to find an opportunity to serve others in our community.  I love that I’m able to do that with Family Gateway.

Tell me what other groups or projects you have worked on in the community.

After arriving in Dallas, I joined the Chi Omega Alumni group and assisted with the Chi Omega Christmas Market. I also spent a few years as a Big Sister with Big Brothers/Big Sisters.  I’ve participated in an Olympic Triathlon with Team in Training that raises money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. When my boys were younger, I was a part of Stonebriar’s Community Church’s Mom2Mom program.  I’ve supported Jonathan’s Place and recently joined the Frisco Giving Tree. 

What is your passion? 

Finding ways to assist families and children in need

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FriscoEnterprise: Jennifer Hull talks about event that benefits Family Gateway