With a name like Goodgames of course she invented something fun.
And it also happens to benefit some good causes.
Duncanville High School senior Gabby Goodgames is the creator of the charity project Koloring Books and Kolors for Foster Kids. It is what the name says and it has raised funds to help with a variety of charitable organizations throughout North Texas.
The way it works is simple. Using a pick-a-date calendar, donors choose a date and contribute that amount of money. For example, if they choose the fifth day of the month, they contribute $5. If they choose the 25th, they donate $25.
"I wanted to do something more, particularly for foster kids, so I launched a campaign to support them," Gabby said. "This experience has taught me the power and joy that can come from helping others."
In its initial year, her project raised over $600, with which she purchased 440 coloring books, workbooks, fun pads and 444 crayons, markers and colored pencils. The most recent and second year of the project raised nearly $600 and she bought 550 coloring books, fun pads, journals and 556 coloring supplies.
Her project grabbed the attention of many people. She was even featured in a segment on NBC Channel 5 TV.
"Gabrielle’s program is a testament to her generosity, entrepreneurial spirit, and deep commitment to supporting children in the foster care system. Through her thoughtful efforts, Gabrielle has successfully launched a fundraiser that not only raises awareness but also provides tangible support to foster children," said Marquita Lewis, a Duncanville teacher. "By combining creativity, a passion for helping others, and a clear sense of purpose, Gabrielle has created a unique opportunity for others to give back in a meaningful and impactful way.
"What makes Gabrielle's achievement so remarkable is her ability to take an idea and turn it into a full-fledged, successful project that positively impacts her community. Koloring Books and Kolors provides not just necessary resources, but also joy and comfort to children who may be facing some of life’s most challenging circumstances.
"Her initiative has not only contributed to the foster care system but has also served as an inspiration to her peers and educators alike. Gabrielle has demonstrated that one individual can truly make a difference, and her program is a shining example of what can be accomplished when one combines vision with action."
You could say her path to this project began when she was barely able to walk. She and her older brother were adopted when they were 2 and 4 years old. Gabby's psychological reports said she might have developmental delays.
"Initially, I struggled to speak and relied on my brother, Trey, to talk for me," she said. "I also used drawing and coloring as a way to express myself.
"My path from a child with potential developmental delays to a high school honors student with a passion for helping others has been rewarding."
Along with her project, Gabby has logged many hours of volunteer work such as working at food banks, writing letters to the elderly and helping with track meets.
In fact, she was recently accepted into college on a track scholarship to the University of Nevada - Las Vegas (UNLV). Her new coach has encouraged her to keep the project going in college.
"Her support meant a lot to me and I said yes immediately," Gabby said.
In 2024 funds raised from the project went to:
• Amazing Grace Child and Family Services
• Assuring Love Child Placement Agency
• Gladney Center for Adoption
• Heart With Hope Family Services
• The Lullaby House
• Texas Reentry Initiative
Donations in 2025 are:
• Manna House
• The Ark Child Placing Agency
• Amazing Grace
• Assuring Love
• Gladney Center
• Youth in View
"It feels good to have created a fundraiser that directly benefits children in such a meaningful way," she said. "I'm committed to continuing this fundraiser for many years to come."