Customer Spotlight: Connor's Kindness Project

Introducing our latest Customer Spotlight: Connor’s Kindness Project!

Founded by Connor Wright at just 12 years old during the COVID-19 pandemic, this non-profit aims to spread kindness and positivity to children in vulnerable situations. From delivering Covid Care Packages to collaborating with other non-profits on impactful missions, CKP is dedicated to making a difference in the lives of children of all ages.

We had the privilege of speaking with Sharon Marrama, Connor’s grandmother and co-founder, who shared insights into CKP’s inspiring mission. Join us as we delve into the heartwarming story behind Connor’s Kindness Project!

A Little About Connor’s Kindness Project

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your business!

My name is Sharon Marrama and I am the Co-Founder and Executive Director of Connor’s Kindness Project!

Connor’s Kindness Project was started in 2021 during the Covid Pandemic by (then) 12-year-old, Connor Wright. CKP’s initial project was delivering Covid Care Packages to children who were isolated. It then worked with other non-profits on project-based missions.

On August 4, 2021, CKP incorporated as a Massachusetts non-profit and subsequently became a 501(c)(3) charity, based out of Lynnfield and Woburn, MA. In September 2021, CKP began delivering “Kindness Kits” to children by partnering with hospitals, shelters, the Department of Children and Family and police departments to improve the overall wellbeing of children dealing with a serious medical issue, a mental health condition, an unfortunate family crisis, or a homeless or poverty situation. In addition, CKP launched a second initiative in January 2023, The Kids Kindness Club.

Tell us more about the initiatives that CKP has!

We have two initiatives – the Kindness Kits and the Kids Kindness Club.

• Kindness Kit
  • The Kindness Kit is CKP’s signature project that serves children of all ages in hospitals and shelters (as well as through DCF). A Kindness Kit is a box of carefully selected items that are entertaining, educational, and comforting for children in challenging situations. They are distributed to make children feel loved and cared for during a vulnerable time. With easily recognizable packaging/logos that have a joyful theme, the Kindness Kit is meant to bring a smile to the face of the child receiving the little red box.
    • Since inception, roughly 5,000 kits have been delivered to children.
      • Note: The kits’ impact reaches beyond the recipient – to the family unit and healthcare workers/caregivers.

• Kids Kindness Club
  • The Kindness Club is an educational enrichment program that launched in January 2023 to benefit the overall well-being of elementary-age children with a specific focus on introducing them to community service and thinking about supporting others.
  • It serves as a program to prevent bullying and encourage inclusiveness without using these terms. The program is launched in elementary schools and participants take a Kindness Pledge and complete 20 activities from a list provided.
  • Upon completion, each student receives a Kindness Certificate, and a Kindness is My Superpower sticker. An all-school assembly is optional (all schools to date have elected the assembly).
• Teen Ambassador Program
  • CKP created the Teen Ambassador Program in 2022. The intent of the program is to help those involved to develop personal leadership skills and gain confidence. Teens that serve on the board help execute CKP’s mission in various ways:
    • Create awareness at events and among peers.
    • Volunteer and assist with community-based projects and small CKP initiatives.
    • Inspire and mentor younger students in the community.

Connor’s Kindness Project & Paper Mart

As you know, we’re celebrating 100+ years as a family-owned business, and we couldn’t have done it without your support throughout the years. What are your thoughts on the importance of shopping family-owned and local?

We try to support local when we can as an organization.

How did you hear about Paper Mart, how long have you been a customer with us, and what keeps you coming back?

We first learned about Paper Mart when we were doing an online search for boxes for our Kindness Kits. We were being very selective because we wanted only a top-quality product. We ordered a few as samples and the rest is history. 6000 of our little red boxes later, we are still with Paper Mart!

What are your favorite Paper Mart products and why do you love them?

The corrugated red boxes (9x9x4) and the filler!

Shop Their Favorites: Connor’s Kindness Project

• Reversible Matte Colored Corrugated Mailing Boxes
• Colored Mix Crinkle Cut Paper 10 lb Box
• Solid Colored Crinkle Paper

Paper Mart Fosters Your Creativity

No matter what stage of growth you’re at in your business, we understand how important it is for you to have the best supplies to make your creative vision come to life. We are always here to lend our expertise to help you get the perfect packaging for whatever you need. Whether you love our ribbons, bags, or our gift wrap, we’ve got you covered.

All images are courtesy of Connor’s Kindness Project unless otherwise indicated by caption. If you’d like to learn more about CKP, check out their official channels:

• Website
• Facebook
• Twitter

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If you’d like to see more of our wonderful customers or learn about our Paper Mart family, check out our other Spotlights.