“The most beautiful thing in the world is to see a child smiling.
The next best thing is to know you are the reason behind that smile.”
-Unknown
Did you know today is being named #GIVINGTUESDAY? It’s all about taking some time to give back to those who need some help. There are some amazing charities to donate to that help out around the world- some provide food or water, others education. Sometimes the best way to reach out and nurture a child though is through the arts! That’s where Traveling Tutus steps in. This charity brings together children and the arts in a unique and magical way.
“At Traveling Tutus, we believe unneeded costumes and dance attire are a precious resource that can be repurposed to bring joy to children all around the world. By collecting, packaging, and shipping those no longer needed items we are allowing children all over the world to experience one of life’s greatest joys, DANCE!”
So many of us remember having dance lessons as a child and the thrill of getting a new tutu for a special recital! Of course like that sparkly #NYE dress you have hanging in the back of your closet you only wore it once or twice. Girls and dance studios across the States are donating those costumes, slippers, shoes and so much more to help a child elsewhere learn to love life through dance.
I got the chance to sit down with the founder of Traveling Tutus to talk about how this 501(c)3 non-profit came into being! Meet Jenna Fletcher the #GIRLBOSS behind the scenes.
1: Where did you get the idea for Traveling Tutus? It’s so different!
“Traveling Tutus started out of a desire to see my own personal dance costumes go to a better cause. At the time, I had just graduated high school and I had no idea just how big it would become. Through the years, it has been amazing to witness the support of thousands of dance studios, businesses, and dancers around the world. It is truly a team effort! I love knowing that we are not only providing dancers a place to recycle their beloved costumes but also giving joy to so many little ones around the world. I am honored to get to be a connector between the two!”
2: What is Traveling Tutus’ #GOAL?
“Our mission is to instill confidence, self-expression, and joy in children. Whenever we see that done we believe it’s “win” for our organization! Seeing a picture of a little girl half way around the world smiling in a dance costume makes it worth all the hard work we put into the non-profit!”
(I LOVE the confidence aspect of this! As #GIRLBOSS babes, we know how far #CONFIDENCE can take you!)
3: What does the organization need the most?
“We truly could not do what we do without individuals that support us financially as well as through the gift of dancewear. We are always thankful for supporters that share our organization with their friends and family. By liking us on social media, you are allowing our name to be shared with a whole new circle of individuals.
Currently, our greatest dance need is NEW dance tights. This #GIVINGTUESDAY we have a campaign to raise 222 pairs of tights to share with girls around the world.”
Traveling Tutus has several ways YOU can help out!
Host a Point Paint Night to raise money to help with shipping costs!
Are you connected with a local dance studio? Set up a donation bin!
Check out Traveling Tutus to subscribe and find out where help is needed most!
I know there is so much holiday prep going on with #BLACKFRIDAY, #CYBERMONDAY, and the #NORDSTROMSALE! Let’s take a moment to give back this season. Traveling Tutus is a great way to share your grown-up love of tulle, tutus and sequins with a child who’s life YOU could impact FOREVER.
Happy Holidays babes!
This is such a great charity. The idea of tutus is so just so darn adorable.
Emily | http://www.stylemetactical.com
Author
Right? It just gives back in a totally different way. Hugs, Kait
This is such a wonderful and beautiful charity. It’s such an amazing way to make little ladies bring out their inner creative beauty, and I absolutely love that people are working together to bring awareness to its importance. Thanks so much for sharing this!
Author
Thanks so much for reading and sharing love!!! I hope you’re having a great week. Hugs, Kait
This is such a wonderful and unique organization! Like you said at the start of this post, what girl doesn’t love a tutu!? Many of these children, unfortunately, don’t have the many clothing selections our children here in the States have, let alone something pretty, vibrant, and sparkly. I know for sure they must feel like a true princess when they put them on and for that moment, they mentally escape the hardships the face everyday. For a moment, they feel as special and loved as they truly are. This is truly a beautiful organization and I thank you so much for introducing it to us!
XO,
Jalisa
http://www.thestylecontour.com
Author
I love how you put this- that the items transport them away for a little while. Such a beautiful way to put it! I love that this charity feeds their imaginations and creativity as others feed their bodies. Thank you so much for reading love and I hope you are having a great week. Hugs, Kait
What a great organization and cause! Thanks so much for sharing! We need to hear this more—spreading love and helping other is what’s most important!
xoxo, Vanessa
http://www.WhatWouldVWear.com
Author
I completely agree! Thank you for reading love. Hugs, Kait
This is such a wonderful organization! Art is truly the best way to nurture children! I’m definitely going to check out Travel Tutus, thank you so much for sharing! Have a wonderful day!
xo, Esther
http://bubblesther.com
Author
Thank you for reading love and I hope you have a fantastic weekend! Hugs, Kait
Oh my gosh Kait what a wonderful cause!!! This is an amazing girlboss story, thank you for sharing. I will tweet this info out today!
Author
Thank you so much for sharing babe! It really is a beautiful charity. Hugs and thanks, Kait