Every year Spirit Halloween collects donations for a local children's hospital in which 100 % of the proceeds are given the the Child Life Department of the hospital. Every Spirit Halloween store has posters, commercials on their song list, and merchandise that helps raise awareness for the cause. The hospital for our district is the Seattle Children's Hospital which also happens to be the hospital my son goes to every six weeks. The Child Life Department specializes in the emotional and educational aspects of recovery and coping skills.The catchphrase that they use is "Making the families hospital stay a little less scary." Child Life Specialist are trained to explain things in a way that the children and their families will understand as well as being an open ear for any concerns or fears that the patient or their family may have. The money raised from donations provides families with educational tools that will help their children excel in recovery as well as emotional growth. Spirit of Children directs their advertising to any and everyone who wants to make a difference in a child's life. They offer glow bracelets for a small donation, enthusiastically ring the donation bell which always draws more people in, display your name and donation on the wall, and last but not least, offer empathy as well as sympathy for those who understand the pain of a severely sick child. To make things even easier, they offer a donation spot at check out for online orders as well. The week before Halloween Spirit puts on a fun party at the hospital for the kids in treatment and recovery offering free costumes, face painting, games, prizes and trick-or-treat bags. Spirit of Children does not compete with any other charities, but they do have contests and incentives for employees between districts to see who can raise the most money for their hospital. I personally donate 10% of all my checks earned at that store in honor of my son Ryker because we happen to be one of the families who benefit from these donations. Every doctor and nurse at Seattle Children's have been more than amazing in helping us remain educated and high spirited through our long journey to recovery.
Very passionate Nicole! I too have donated and felt proud when the bell was rung. I also told my son's story and I think the sales clerks were appreciative to see a true life example of who uses children's. So many people depend on Children's hospitals and unless you have lived the life yourself, it can be difficult to understand. Good for you:)
ReplyDeleteExactly! And I am so glad we met. It is really nice to have someone to talk to who understands. :) I'm about to read yours.
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