I am Barbara Thomason, creator of the Joy Circles Gang and Joy Circles®. This campaign is to help launch The Joy Circles Gang, a weekly web series, preparing preteens for life's challenges.

Between the ages of 9 and 13, children experience rapid changes in identity, friendships, and responsibilities. They are no longer young children and not quite teenagers. This stage can feel overwhelming, and they are not always equipped with the tools they need to thrive.

Launching January 2026, with the Joy Circles Gang App, this mindset-driven program with its live-action series, blends entertainment and education to give kids the support they need in a format they'll enjoy.

The heart of the program is built around "Models for Life", simple strategies to help kids strengthen communication, self-management, leadership, and character skills. Parents will recognize the value of these lessons, while preteens will connect with the characters and energy of the show.

View the video to hear how I was reading contemporary fiction and realizing how important it was to highlight issues such as bullying, relationships, and socio-economic differences, and bring them to the forefront for kids of this age.

This campaign is a Team Effort, shared by Cassie, Marketing & Reading Rumble Director, and Mallory (who plays the part of Alex), and anyone else who wants to Team Up!

I can't wait for you to meet Alex, Atticus, Libby, Mia, and Mateo, our Joy Circles Gang!

It costs approximately $1,800-$2,000/month to lease the sound studio and the necessary equipment for filming. It costs about $600/month to fund the app that houses this program. Add to these expenses the insurance, music copyright fees, paying actors, crew, and marketing the program, and it is apparent why we seek backers to help launch this important work.

We are grateful for every gift. We see each dollar as an investment in youth mental health and in the future of our society.