Randi Cairns BYFI '87, is an expert multitasker - mother of four children ranging in ages from 3 to 13, working freelance jobs while her husband Captain Ian Cairns is stationed in Afghanistan tasked with training the Afghan National Police, studying full-time towards an MS in Human Services, and working to get her budding not-for-profit organization Home Front Hearts off the ground.
Home Front Hearts is literally a labor of love for Randi. "My heart has belonged to a soldier for almost fifteen years. Supporting his career, managing things in his absence and working with the families of his soldiers - I've become personally acquainted with the challenges faced by military families," says Randi. The mission of Home Front Hearts is to serve the families that serve our country by providing support and resources to help them, increasing public awareness of the struggles and sacrifices of military families, and engaging individuals and businesses in building a more military-friendly community.
Randi grew up learning about Tikkun Olam and Tzedakah in Hebrew School. Her understanding of the importance of viewing our responsibilities for each other through a broader lens deepened as a result of being part of an interfaith relationship. "My husband and I are deeply committed to teaching these values to our children," explains Randi. "The best way I can do that is through my own actions in advocating for others."
Recently, Randi received a BYFI Alumni Venture Fund grant to help her secure official 501c3 status as a public charity. With this status in place, Randi can now focus on growing her organization and serving the needs of military families. "The BYFI alumni community offers a sense of belonging, a diverse set of skills and experiences, and a connection the likes of which I have not experienced in other communities to which I've belonged. 21 years after a summer trip to Israel , it is still a community that I turn to and know that I will be supported."
To get involved volunteering your expertise with Home Front Hearts contact Randi at rscairns@homefronthearts.com or donate online through www.homefronthearts.com
