Our Beginnings
Our heartfelt journey began with a serendipitous encounter. Chris, while working at his store in New Orleans, crossed paths with a remarkable little girl, Lamika Downs, who had been diagnosed with terminal brain cancer. Their conversation unveiled Lamika's dream of becoming a fashion model, igniting a spark within our hearts.
Motivated by Lamika's infectious spirit and unwavering determination, we embarked on a mission to turn her dream into a reality. We reached out to individuals in the fashion industry and media to bring together a remarkable event. In October 2011, an exclusive fashion show was curated for Lamika. With grace and confidence, she walked the runway like the model she dreamed to be. It was a moment of pure magic.
Sadly, just months after the show, Lamika passed away. However, her radiant spirit continued to inspire us. In her memory, we honor her life by organizing annual fashion shows for pediatric patients. These shows bring joy and empowerment to other young patients, reminding them of their strength and resilience.
Lamika's profound impact remains the cornerstone of our organization. Her unwavering belief in the power of dreams fuels our commitment to supporting children facing life's toughest challenges. We carry her spirit within us, serving as a guiding light on our path of compassion and care.
Every year, as we return to the hospital, we witness the transformative power of dreams fulfilled. The smiles on the faces of the young patients, the sense of hope restored — it all serves as a testament to Lamika's enduring legacy.
We invite you to join us on this meaningful journey, where every action we take is inspired by the indelible impression left by Lamika. Together, we can provide comfort, joy, and the realization of dreams to children who need it most.
Lamika's memory lives on through our collective efforts. By working hand in hand, we can honor her spirit and create a lasting impact for countless children in need.
Thank you for being a part of our story and for helping us bring smiles and dreams to life!
“Sometimes the littlest things take up the most room in your heart.”
- Winnie the Pooh
Our Mission
Hugs4Kids is passionately dedicated to making a difference in the lives of young patients. Our organization is driven by the belief that every child deserves to experience joy and fulfillment regardless of their circumstances. Through the power of donations, fundraisers, and community events, we come together to support children in achieving their goals and dreams.
Our mission is simple yet profound: to bring smiles to the faces of children. We understand that a smile has the power to uplift spirits, inspire hope, and create lasting memories. By harnessing the generosity of our community, we strive to make these smiles a reality.
Our Vision
At Hugs4Kids, our vision is to be a beacon of hope and support for children facing challenging medical journeys. Through our organization, we aim to raise funds and resources to provide critical treatments for children in need. We understand the immense impact that proper medical care can have on their well-being and their journey toward recovery. Additionally, we are dedicated to creating memorable events that bring smiles to these young patients. Our annual fashion show stands as a testament to our commitment to fostering moments of happiness amid treatments. It is a night when children can forget their worries and simply be themselves.
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By combining our passion for raising funds with our dedication to creating uplifting events, we aim to provide support for children navigating challenging medical circumstances. We envision a future where no child goes without vital treatments and where their spirits are lifted through experiences that remind them of their strength and resilience.
Our Team
Meet the incredible, passionate people who make Hugs4Kids possible!
Founder and President
Chris Sperling
Chris graduated from Southeastern Louisiana University in 2000, earning a bachelor’s degree in Business Management. Demonstrating his dedication to and passion for service early in life, Chris served in the Louisiana Army National Guard for 7 years. For the past 25 years, he has worked as a store manager of Walgreens. Additionally, Chris actively contributes to the success of Children Hospital’s Prom of Champions and Thomas Morstead’s What You Give Will Grow. Outside of his philanthropic endeavors, Chris is a devoted family man, married to Courtney Sperling and a proud parent of two kids, Sarah and Cason.
Vice President
Nicole Degeorge
Nicole grew up in Slidell and is a current resident of Mandeville, La.
After graduating from Salmen High school, she attended Delgado Community College where she studied American Sign Language, and Emergency Medicine.
Nicole has served in the Louisiana National Guard for the last 18 years as a Combat Medic, Flight Medic, and most recently as State Retention Non-Commissioned Officer.
She is the devoted mom of 4 (2 sons and twin daughters), a proud grandmother (1 boy) and caregiver to her special needs sister.
Nicole loves to volunteer in her community through numerous organizations, restore classic cars with her dad, and garden with her youngest sister.
She is a member of Church of the King in Mandeville, La., National Guard Enlisted Association, secretary and life long member of the Army Aviation Association of America and silent partner at Northshore Tropicals Aquarium Services, the company her late mom founded.
Treasurer
Chris Scannavino
Chris Scannavino graduated from the University of New Orleans in 2019 with a bachelors in finance. Chris has been working in the accounting field and has found a passion for helping businesses and individuals achieve their financial goals. Chris has found a way of melding his passion for helping others and finance to further his philanthropic endeavors. In his free time, Chris enjoys spending time with his wife Patricia and sons Dom and Chris. Chris is looking forward to devoting his time to Hugs 4 Kids and making an impact on our community to help raise awareness for children through their medical journeys.
Secretary
Melissa Sperling
Melissa has been a resident of Abita Springs since 2002, deeply rooted in the community she calls home. After 25 years of her career in law enforcement, serving the citizens of St. Tammany Parish and St. John the Baptist Parish, she retired and began dedicating her time to serving the communities where she lives. Bringing joy to children who suffer life-changing illnesses, Melissa volunteers with social events such as Hugs4Kids fashion shows, What You Give Will Grow’s Prom and The Best Christmas Ever, and Children’s Hospital’s Mocktail events. Additionally, she volunteers for FOP Lodge #13’s Shop with a Cop, St. Tammany Deputy’s Association Senior Luncheons, and WINGS, a church-based group. In her personal life, she shares a 45-year marriage with Johnny Sperling and cherishes the role of a mother and grandmother.
Director of Marketing
Courtney Sperling
Bio coming soon!
Director of Donor Engagement/Relations
Daniel Munn
Daniel Munn, widely known as Mr. Northshore, is a highly accomplished real estate professional, social media influencer, and community leader. An LSU graduate with a Marketing Degree, Daniel has built a thriving career in real estate.
Daniel lives in Madisonville with his wife Taylor and their three-year-old son, Camden. Daniel is also a familiar face at key Northshore events such as the Covington Christmas Parade, Madisonville Wooden Boat Festival and is the spokesperson for the Bluesberry Music Festival.
Whether helping families find their dream homes or elevating the region through his influential platform, Daniel continues to make a lasting impact on the Northshore and beyond.
Volunteer Coordinator
Jennifer Thomas
Jennifer grew up in Savannah, Georgia but Louisiana has been her home for the past 18 years. She graduated from Delgado Community College with a degree in Biological Sciences and currently works as a Pharmacy Operational Manager. With a deep passion for helping others, Jennifer became involved with Hugs4kids and now serves as the Volunteer Coordinator, where she loves connecting people to meaningful ways to give back. She also volunteers with CASA, advocating for children in the foster care system. Outside of work and volunteering, Jennifer enjoys spending time with her husband, Rob, and their daughter, Harper.