Today we’d like to introduce you to Rachel Dailey.
Hi Rachel, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Thank you so much for allowing me this opportunity to share my story! I’ve been working behind the scenes for over a year to bring The Birthday Party Project to my community. The mission of this incredible non-profit is simple yet profound: Bringing JOY to children experiencing homelessness through the MAGIC of a birthday celebration.
It’s hard to believe a year ago, a surprisingly beautiful reaction from my daughter Emma set into motion a journey to The Birthday Party Project.
One day leaving a birthday party, Emma was crying because she wanted more cake. I encouraged her to be grateful for these celebrations – because some children don’t get birthday parties. Some kids don’t get celebrated. Her innocent response struck me deeply. “Mommy,” she said with excitement, “we throw great parties, let’s have birthday parties for kids who don’t get celebrated!”
Que the proud tears and immediate Google search “how to start a non-profit for children who don’t have birthday parties.” This is how the trajectory of my future changed. This is how I found Paige, the Founder of this Dallas-based oganization and someone I now call a dear friend. She’s one of a kind with a heart of gold.
Did you know: This year alone, 2.5 million children experiencing homelessness might miss out on a birthday celebration. The Birthday Party Project wants to change that. With your help, let’s make every child feel special, especially on their birthday.
We’ve partnered with Landmarks for Families and Young Moms Together and we are excited for our first monthly birthday party on Wednesday, September 17th.
You can visit The Birthday Party project’s website for more information on its mission, goals and how you can become a volunteer!
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Charleston was not on The Birthday Party Project’s radar as a target city to expand. After Paige received my initial email, she felt compelled enough by my story to schedule a meeting and discuss the possibilities. I made a visit to Dallas a few weeks later and attended a party. It was then that I knew what a great need this is in our city. Paige presented Charleston to her Board and it was approved to bring birthday parties to the Lowcountry!
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
After a career in software, I joined my husband as he was expanding his company. We are Zaxby’s franchisees with locations in South Carolina and Georgia. I launched the catering and philanthropy department and was with the company for 4 years until my first child, Emma was born. Since then, I’ve served on several Boards and I am active in my children’s school. Emma, 6, attends Mount Pleasant Academy and Jack, 4, attends Mount Pleasant Presbyterian Learning Center. My family life growing up was much different than I am able to provide for my children. I have made a commitment to raise Emma and Jack in a stable, healthy and happy environment. I was not always able to give back and I relied on my community for support throughout my childhood. Now, it’s my turn to give back!
We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
The quote I hold dear is one by Oscar Wilde: “The smallest act of kindness is worth more than the grandest intention.”
Be kind and bring JOY.
This is my definition of success.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thebirthdaypartyproject.com
- Instagram: thebirthdaypartyproject
