At Rodman for Kids, we believe that collaboration can multiply the impact organizations have on the lives of children. This belief was beautifully illustrated in the recent partnership between two of our Charity Partners: The Boston House and Connor’s Kindness Project. This partnership, born out of a connection made through Rodman for Kids, demonstrates the power of community and shared mission.
The Boston House provides a home away from home for children with cancer and other life-threatening illnesses and their families. Their mission is to offer a place of comfort and support during challenging times, ensuring that families can stay together while their child receives the care they need. Connor’s Kindness Project, on the other hand, spreads joy and kindness to children facing difficult circumstances by delivering Kindness Kits filled with thoughtful items like games, art supplies, and comfort items. These kits are designed to brighten a child’s day and remind them that they are cared for. In short, it seems like a perfect fit for these two organizations to work together!
The collaboration began shortly after our 2024 Charity Partner Kick Off Conference at the Marilyn Rodman Performing Arts Center in May. Sharon Marrama, Co-Founder and Executive Director of Connor’s Kindness Project, took the initiative to reach out to The Boston House. Mike Emerman, Executive Director of The Boston House, shared, “Sharon reached out to us via phone…there was no looking back.” The connection was immediate and heartfelt, grounded in their shared commitment to supporting children facing pediatric cancer.
For both organizations, working together has been more than just a professional collaboration; it’s been a rewarding experience that underscores the importance of community. Mike noted that being connected to other organizations focused on improving children’s lives through Rodman for Kids’ Charity Partner Program has led to some wonderful conversations and opportunities. Sharon echoed this sentiment, emphasizing how meaningful it is to partner with a charity like The Boston House. “This one touches our hearts because of the nature of the charity and what it does for children AND their families during a challenging situation that aligns so well with our mission,” she said.
The result of this partnership has already made a tangible difference. New families checking into The Boston House now receive one of Connor’s Kindness Kits, filled with games, art supplies, socks, and more. These kits serve as a beacon of support, showing families that they are not alone in their fight against pediatric cancer. Both organizations are excited to continue this partnership, with hopes of further collaboration in the future.
When asked if this collaboration would have happened without Rodman for Kids, Mike expressed his doubt, highlighting how Rodman for Kids’ network brought their two organizations together. Sharon added that while the partnership may have eventually come about, “knowing that The Boston House was a Rodman for Kids Charity Partner left no doubt in our mind that we should make it happen sooner rather than later.”
This partnership is a testament to the power of connection and the incredible impact that can be achieved when organizations come together. At Rodman for Kids, we are proud to have facilitated this collaboration and look forward to seeing how The Boston House and Connor’s Kindness Project continue to support families in need.
