About Us

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About Us

Our Story

Scribbles for Smiles was founded by Riya Goyal at the age of 15, born from a deeply personal place of love, loss, and hope.

Since a young age, Riya has been watching her grandfather, who was diagnosed with multiple myeloma when she was just in first grade, face the quiet battles of illness. Later, her grandmother was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, and Riya witnessed again how illness in old age often brings with it not just pain, but profound loneliness and loss of spirit.

Riya, who has always found joy and purpose in painting and creating, began making handmade cards and drawings for her family on every occasion. These were small gestures that lit up their eyes and brought genuine smiles, even on the hardest days. Her grandfather, her biggest fan and supporter, keeps every card. Each one, she realized, was more than paper and calligraphy: it is a reminder that he is loved, seen, and not forgotten.

That realization changed her. Riya began to understand that art could be more than just self-expression–it could be a source of healing. It isn’t just her grandparents who need this light. So many elderly people spend their days in silence, facing illness and solitude without comfort or connection. That is what Scribbles for Smiles is about: using art to reach those people, to fill their days with color, warmth, and the simple but powerful feeling of being cared for.

Scribbles for Smiles is Riya’s way of giving back, of reminding the elderly that they are not invisible, and that someone is thinking of them. Through thoughtful, handmade artwork and messages of love, the organization seeks to ease the isolation so many seniors experience, offering a moment of joy in the midst of uncertainty. Our mission is to bring comfort and connection through creativity, one card, one smile, one heart at a time.

Mission Statement

Inspire and connect student artists with individuals experiencing isolation through handmade creations that inspire joy and foster a sense of connection.

Vision

A world where no one feels forgotten, and every smile begins with a scribble.

Meet our team

Charity, volunteer for better life and our smiles.

Riya Goyal

Founder & President

Dilip Goyal

Treasurer

Devisha Mehta

Board Member

Sophia Ben-Hamida

Vice President

Avery Vaughn

Secretary

Where Art Becomes a Hug

Our Values

Compassion

We lead with empathy and care

Creativity

We believe in the transformative power of art

Connection

We bring people together across generations

Community

We empower students to lead locally
and think globally