Giving Back with PRESENT NOW

Supporting Children, One Gift at a Time:
Sheridan Group’s Ongoing Partnership with PRESENT NOW

At Sheridan Group, we believe in using our time and resources to support the communities around us. Since December 2023, we’ve proudly partnered with PRESENT NOW, a Santa Monica-based nonprofit that uplifts children living in domestic violence shelters through thoughtful, personalized gifts delivered on special occasions.

Just ten minutes from our office, PRESENT NOW was a natural fit—especially with its mission to bring joy and a sense of normalcy to children during times of transition and healing. Our partnership began through a recommendation from Claudia Maizey, Senior Ancillary Specialist, who has a personal connection to one of the organization’s founders. What began as a single volunteer day has become an ongoing partnership we deeply value.

Every few months, Sheridan Group team members volunteer during the workday in two-hour shifts to support PRESENT NOW’s programs. Our teams typically help assemble birthday presents or holiday gift boxes filled with essentials and special items that let each child know they are seen, valued, and loved.

This past February, in honor of Valentine’s Day, we joined PRESENT NOW’s Presence of Love campaign—wrapping and preparing Valentine’s gifts for children in shelters across the region. These small gestures carry deep meaning, helping children feel comfort and care on days that might otherwise be overlooked.

So far, around 35 Sheridan Group employees have participated, with 8–10 volunteers typically contributing during each session. Our team values the opportunity to step away from the day-to-day and connect with a mission that brings joy and comfort to children when they need it most.

“Volunteering with PRESENT NOW has been a profoundly meaningful experience,” said Conny Rodriguez, Director of Design at Sheridan Group. “The impact they make on children who have experienced so much is not only necessary — it’s beautiful. I’m honored to be a small part of their mission.”

Founded in 2012 by social entrepreneurs Melanie Neumann and Erica Fisher, PRESENT NOW is the only national organization dedicated to restoring a sense of normalcy to children living in domestic violence shelters through gift-giving programs. Their Presents Program delivers brand-new, personalized boxes on birthdays, Valentine’s Day, and Back-to-School Day to support the healing process between a child and their safe parent.

We’re proud to be part of this mission—and we look forward to continuing to support PRESENT NOW in the months and years ahead.

Want to see more of what we’re up to?

Visit Our Community Impact page to learn how Sheridan Group is giving back.