Our Brunch..A Success Beyond Measure

This past Saturday the Shimmer Sparkle Shine Project did something new; we hosted a free brunch to all who wanted to come. At the brunch we had speakers and an activity in another room for the tween and teen girls in attendance. The goal of this brunch was to not only educate on what our organization does, but how the lack of self-worth and low self-esteem is an issue that effects so many. 

One of our speakers was Patrick, an addiction councilor in the area, and he talked about how low-self-esteem is a common attribute among those he has to work with. He also tied in how it is important and crucial for self-esteem to be focused on and raised while children are still in their youth. 

Following Patrick, a past workshop participant and current volunteer, Angelica, spoke. She moved everyone to tears, as she opened up about her battles with self-worth and self-esteem. She discussed how the Shimmer Sparkle Shine Project helped reshape her view of self-worth. I have personally seen her grow up over the years, and Angelica is an amazing young lady. I am so lucky to have her so involved in our organization and as an amazing role model for the younger girls to look up to. At a later time, we will be uploading her speech for everyone to read.

For the last portion of the brunch, myself, along with our new Vice-President Ashley, gave a presentation about the details of the Shimmer Sparkle Shine Project and how others can get involved.

My favorite part about the brunch was witnessing and experiencing all the support we have; from both those in attendance and those who made the brunch possible. When I went to go welcome everyone and start introducing the speakers, I couldn’t help but to be moved to tears. Some of the guest I knew personally, others are people I have worked with in the past to schedule workshops, and others I had never met before this brunch. It was satisfyingly overwhelming. 

It was also very special to me to see my first ever Shimmer Sparkle Shine participant, Michelle, and Angelica sitting next to each other. Seeing two of my very first workshop participants from 3 and a half years ago, as grown beautiful young ladies, meant so much to me. They exemplify what we do as they shimmer, sparkle, and shine in everything they do!

It wasn’t just the support from those who attended that made me happy. The amount of donations we received was also incredible. From our local community we received donations from King Soopers, Chick-fil-a, Starbucks, Einstein’s Brothers Bagels, and Atlanta Bread Company. We were also amazed and appreciative of the donations and contributions we received from outside of Colorado. We received a donation from Sugar + Sunshine Bakery in New Jersey and Ouish Boutique (based out of Utah) supplied our gift bags. Everyone who came to the brunch walked away with the cutest bag full of homemade, yummy scented perfume oils and fairy soap! It was the perfect addition to our brunch. 

Last, but not least, I can’t forget CTA who let us use their studio to have the brunch. They have always been so supportive of the Shimmer Sparkle Shine Project over the years! It is amazing how much of a difference can be made, when groups of people join together. As another non-profit President often tells me, “Together we are stronger.” This is so true! 

We met some amazing people, and made some amazing connections as a result of this brunch. I can’t wait for our brunch next year, because it can only go up from here!

With Love,

Ciara Neill