Another year, another successful Victoria’s Secret Party! What started in 2010 as a means to get my closest girlfriends together for a night of fun has transformed into our most celebrated annual fundraising event. We look forward to the gift-giving soirée all year long. Bart does as well, spinning beats in the DJ booth, and of course Starfish Family Services too! 

Our intention this year was to collect as many winter clothes and accessories for kids in need. This year, Starfish gave us a list of most-needed items, including winter coats, boots, hats, gloves, and other warm apparel. Many children don’t have a warm coat to wear and therefore not only are they cold but also not allowed to play at recess, showing up to school in only a sweater. Childhood is about playing and exploring; no child should be denied that!

For over 40 years, Starfish Family Services has been supporting children and families in the Detroit and the surrounding suburbs with early childhood development, children’s mental health, and family support. In fact, Crain’s voted them the best managed nonprofit–I have to agree!

I’m on a mission to show kindness and comfort to as many kids as possible. If I’d do something for my little ones, I’d do it for all the others! And that’s how my girlfriends feel too. They showed up to the event with such excitement, emotionally connected to the items they purchased and donated, knowing how much it would help those in need. It takes a tremendous amount of resources to provide for children, and my friends and I tackle this responsibility head on.

We collected over 50 brand new coats! Not to mention dozens of boots and other winter clothing accessories. What an accomplishment.

The day after the event, I helped hand-deliver it all to Starfish’s headquarters. I was overwhelmed with joy and satisfaction. The kids have a chance to “shop” in the closet and pick out what they’d like. How cute!

As the event has grown and continues to change lives, including my own, I recognize a need to make an even greater impact. I’m looking to either create my own 501c3 or to partner up with a local Detroit nonprofit to do more. The foundation, whatever form it will take, will allow me to reach more people and make it better than ever. And do more with our budget.

If you’re interested in getting involved and/or want to attend next year’s soirée, reach out at bridjet@bridjetmorris.com. I can’t wait to hear from you. 

It’s the little things that do so much!