Today's post is going to be a lengthy one so grab a cup of coffee and possibly some tissues (lol). When I started Bless Box in December 2016, I wanted it to be more than an amazing box of monthly goodies on your doorstep. Of course, that was part of the exciting vision, but it wasn't the entire vision. I had another big dream for Bless - one that could impact and change lives. If there's one thing I've learned in my career so far, it's the fact that big dreams require BIG work. In other words, I knew it would take time, a lot of research, prayer and patience. With less than a year of being in business, the Bless Box has exceeded my expectations in such a short period of time. More than that - it was the green-light signal I needed to jumpstart the next chapter for Bless. It's truly a pinch-me moment that this chapter is here and I'm able to share it with all of you (my amazing online fam).
Big Box. Bigger Impact. This is the story of Bless.
Bless is striving to make a positive impact on real lives - beyond the box. September 2017 is going to be a very exciting month in Bless Box history. I am launching the FIRST (of many!) 'Bless Gives Back' boxes. For the month of September we will match all donations made to our spotlight organization: Vista Del Mar Child & Family Services. (Donations are not open yet). I chose this organization because I've gotten to know these kids, their stories and oh how I love them so much.The story of how I came into contact with them is really cool. It was through a follower of mine (Love you guys!) who connected this specific group home leader to us. The sweetest woman named Elizabeth reached out to us and simply wanted to know if I had any extra products sitting around that I would want to donate to the kids. They had an exciting Western Dance night coming up. Naturally, I my research and quickly learned what this is an organization providing a safe and nurturing environment, as well as a number of programs in education, autism, adoption, residential care, prevention, and early intervention for these kids. Some of the nightmare stories these kids come from is jaw dropping. It was refreshing to know that in today's world people still love and care for other people.Stevie, Brittany (my sister in law) and I wanted to love on these kids and personally deliver the goodies to the group home. I can't even put it into words the look on their faces when we gave them their goodie bags. The biggest highlight was seeing how much they truly appreciated the time we spent hanging out with them, talking, asking about their future dreams and of course making them laugh (Rodrigo made an appearance lol!).
A couple weeks later, we received these sweet handwritten thank you notes from the kids. I was about 7 or 8 weeks pregnant laying on the couch reading through all of them. Who would have thought that the last sentence on this specific one would be a confirmation I needed at that moment in my life - it was a blessing that came full circle.
For this September project, I knew I was going to need some help. I wanted to partner with one of my most passionate digital influencer friends to help me raise awareness for these kids. Enter Lauren Bushnell. For those of you who may or may not know Lauren, she's more than just "the girl who was on The Bachelor." She is one of the most genuine, loving, fun human beings I've ever met. She has a big personality and an even bigger heart. Lauren came over one afternoon and we sat down and talked about life, Sweetie, Bless Box, and our personal goals as digital influencers. It was an amazing conversation where we both shared our hearts for the future and how passionate we are about making a positive difference in people's lives. When I told her about these kids, it was like a prayer answered. I knew in that moment what I was doing was right and it was meant to be.There are more exciting surprises for September but I don't want to give it all away, so keep your eyes open for more. This is just the beginning of a new chapter for Bless Box. Best of all, this is a story that involves all of us - YOU and me. Here's the biggest thing I've learned so far. You don't have to be an influencer or someone with a following to make a difference in your community. Big or small - helping others (even if it's a kind gesture) can make all the difference in touching someone's life. I can't wait to see how far we will go to Bless the world together - one box at a time. Don't miss this box- sign up today!Xo, Sazan
