We tell our children, and ourselves, that one person really can make a difference-but how often do we get to see this principle in action? I am the proud father of three girls who are doing just that, and I'd like to share our story with you.
When my daughters decided they wanted to go into business, the idea of doll-making was naturally appealing. Thus, Prayer Pals were born: simple, appealing dolls crafted with love and designed to be signed and written on with included fabric pens, for gifts to those who need prayers. The girls and I decided to give back to the world by donating dolls and profits to charitable organizations, and establishing a yearly scholarship award.
After watching these little ladies blossom with the joy of creating and giving, I realized that we are all capable of changing the world, one act at a time. You may not have the time to help your children build an entire company, but there are many ways you can let them make a difference in your community, our country, or the whole world. If your children feel they have a voice, and their efforts matter, they will go on to achieve great things.
Here are a few things that even the busiest parent can do to help their children (and themselves) make a difference:
The concept of a neighborhood lemonade stand has fallen by the wayside, and this is not a good thing. Help your child brainstorm a variation on the lemonade stand: he or she can sell cold drinks, baked goods, or even small mass-produced toys.
Encourage the entrepreneurial spirit in your child early. Talk to them about the way businesses work, and allow them to develop any creative ideas.
Point out charitable organizations, either in your area or worldwide, and explain what they do. Encourage your child to donate part of his or her earnings or allowance to the charity of their choice.
Volunteer with your child at a local shelter, mission, food pantry, or other community program. If your community doesn't have any charity organizations, you and your child might offer yard services to some elderly neighbors--or even start a community service project yourself!
I am particularly proud of my daughters' latest program. This summer, Prayer Pals is releasing four new doll designs, and donating several signed dolls to our soldiers in Iraq. With the girls' typical flair for style, the dolls are no ordinary colors. They are Banana Yellow, Sky Blue, Bubble Gum Pink, and my personal favorite, Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Camouflage.
The camouflage doll is a special creation. His name is Logan, after an Iraqi boy who has been helping our soldiers with translation and information. The soldiers changed his name to protect his identity, but his story is told on the blog of an Iraq veteran known as Sminklemeyer. You can read Logan's touching story here.
As for the dolls, my daughters have even taken the price into consideration for this special event. They plan to offer them at a discount: $17.76, in honor of America's year of independence. My girls are making a difference in the lives of our soldiers, and for many people who need prayers and concern. What can you do to touch someone's life today?
Sincerely,
Sam The Dad Jackson
When my daughters decided they wanted to go into business, the idea of doll-making was naturally appealing. Thus, Prayer Pals were born: simple, appealing dolls crafted with love and designed to be signed and written on with included fabric pens, for gifts to those who need prayers. The girls and I decided to give back to the world by donating dolls and profits to charitable organizations, and establishing a yearly scholarship award.
After watching these little ladies blossom with the joy of creating and giving, I realized that we are all capable of changing the world, one act at a time. You may not have the time to help your children build an entire company, but there are many ways you can let them make a difference in your community, our country, or the whole world. If your children feel they have a voice, and their efforts matter, they will go on to achieve great things.
Here are a few things that even the busiest parent can do to help their children (and themselves) make a difference:
The concept of a neighborhood lemonade stand has fallen by the wayside, and this is not a good thing. Help your child brainstorm a variation on the lemonade stand: he or she can sell cold drinks, baked goods, or even small mass-produced toys.
Encourage the entrepreneurial spirit in your child early. Talk to them about the way businesses work, and allow them to develop any creative ideas.
Point out charitable organizations, either in your area or worldwide, and explain what they do. Encourage your child to donate part of his or her earnings or allowance to the charity of their choice.
Volunteer with your child at a local shelter, mission, food pantry, or other community program. If your community doesn't have any charity organizations, you and your child might offer yard services to some elderly neighbors--or even start a community service project yourself!
I am particularly proud of my daughters' latest program. This summer, Prayer Pals is releasing four new doll designs, and donating several signed dolls to our soldiers in Iraq. With the girls' typical flair for style, the dolls are no ordinary colors. They are Banana Yellow, Sky Blue, Bubble Gum Pink, and my personal favorite, Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Camouflage.
The camouflage doll is a special creation. His name is Logan, after an Iraqi boy who has been helping our soldiers with translation and information. The soldiers changed his name to protect his identity, but his story is told on the blog of an Iraq veteran known as Sminklemeyer. You can read Logan's touching story here.
As for the dolls, my daughters have even taken the price into consideration for this special event. They plan to offer them at a discount: $17.76, in honor of America's year of independence. My girls are making a difference in the lives of our soldiers, and for many people who need prayers and concern. What can you do to touch someone's life today?
Sincerely,
Sam The Dad Jackson
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