CASA Community Surprise: Pop-Up Fundraiser by HH Apothecary & Co. Sparks Conversation and Support
This past weekend, the heart of our community, Madison's Main Street, was alive with the chatter of shoppers and the vibrancy of Barbie-themed hues. However, amidst the pinks and playful fun, a deeper, more profound message was unfolding. A message that struck a chord with our community and simultaneously supported CASA of Jefferson County.
HH Apothecary & Co., a long-standing pillar in our business district, took an unexpected, yet heartening turn, stepping beyond the mere aesthetics of the "Come on Barbie, Let's go shopping! Sidewalk Sale". The wellness company used the Barbie-centric event to promote body positivity, an issue close to their heart while lending a hand to CASA.
"Although we want to support our business district in all ways, we decided to follow our true feelings, our own path as always," shared the impassioned business on their social media. Their true feelings led to a groundbreaking initiative: The "Get Real Barbie" raffle. The team at HH Apothecary & Co. sourced Barbies that, in their own words, look "most like real people, real colors, real sizes, real women."
The raffle took place over the weekend with tickets available for purchase, and the proceeds were dedicated to supporting CASA of Jefferson County's invaluable work. "All proceeds will benefit real little girls dealing with real-life issues," they added, underscoring their commitment to promoting realistic body images.
Their initiative, a step towards promoting the belief that "EVERY BODY is beautiful," sparked substantial dialogue about body image, media, and the unrealistic beauty standards set by pop culture.
Whitney Roberts, Executive Director of CASA, reflected on this initiative. "There’s such a strong connection between who the world tells our children they should be and who they transform into in adulthood. The platforms that influence us are endless, and I have a responsibility to share that abuse and neglect also mold our children. In some situations, it’s not until adulthood that we know just how great the impact," she said.
Roberts further shared the often unseen struggles many children face. "Imagine a young child being removed from their parents, sleeping in a new bed, and starting a new school, all while trying to process the hurt they endured until the point of removal. Now imagine being able to help that child immediately by navigating the foster care system with them, and your sole responsibility is using your voice on their behalf so they can resume some sense of normalcy."
The "Get Real Barbie" raffle not only sparked dialogue about body image but also illuminated the vital work CASA does for children. "The 'Get Real' collaboration with HH Apothecary & Co. helped us raise awareness in the work of 84 children since January who share the same story above," said Roberts.
The event, hosted by the Madison Main Street Program, initially aimed to celebrate the new Barbie movie release with a day full of shopping. However, the unanticipated raffle became a focal point, encouraging community members to participate and support the cause. By the end of the weekend, the vibrant shopping spree evolved into a gathering centered on inclusivity, body positivity, and a cause dear to our hearts - supporting the children represented by CASA.
"We want to help young women throughout Indiana get real information, get real expectations, and get real help," noted HH Apothecary & Co. Their stand and contribution to CASA goes beyond the scope of a typical sidewalk sale and resonates with the larger goal we all share – creating a safer, healthier, and more inclusive community for our children.
"The 'Get Real' collaboration with HH Apothecary & Co. helped us raise awareness in the work of 84 children since January who share the same story above. Giving a child hope is the best and most selfless gift, and for all those who have continued to keep our name in their conversations, thank you," Roberts shared.
On behalf of CASA of Jefferson County, we'd like to extend our heartfelt thanks to HH Apothecary & Co. for their innovative and inspiring fundraiser, as well as everyone who participated in the raffle. Your support and dedication are integral to our continued mission to advocate for children in need.