Sometimes life sends you gift – an unexpected surprise that makes you smile the whole day. I got one last month when I received a text from Gerald Rittenberg, the CEO of Party City, asking what Kayla’s favorite color was so he could place an order for a Carolyn’s cart for their South Burlington location. I was fortunate to meet Mr. Rittenberg at a social event earlier this year and mentioned to him how the Party City location in South Burlington could really use a Caroline’s cart, explaining how much easier it would make it for caretakers to visit the store with children or adults with special needs. He listened to my reasoning and asked for more information regarding the cart and actually visited Hannafords to see one. I received the text not long after our conversation and a Carolyn’s cart is now available for use at Party City in South Burlington.
Kayla is becoming a huge advocate for Caroline’s Cart within our community. She clearly benefits from the cart at times when she is fatigued but there are many other children and adults that are also positively impacted. Since the cart can hold up to 250 pounds, it is not only for children but can also be used by adults. Kayla was very excited to hear about another cart being placed in an area retail location and continually pestered me about its arrival. When she found out it was in, she insisted that we visit Party City to try it out. I got a picture of her in the cart but what really touched my heart was her decision to write a thank you note to Mr. Rittenberg. It takes tremendous amount of energy for Kayla to write but she sat down wrote one, asking me how to spell words she was not sure of. It took quite some time but she was determined and dedicated and we mailed it this morning.
I, of course, also want to thank Mr. Rittenberg. Once explained, he understood the impact the cart can have on individuals, the community as a whole and on his business and he acted quickly. I did not have to fund raise. I did not have to trudge through paperwork or write various letters with justifications. Mr. Rittenberg listened, understood and acted and I cannot express my gratitude enough.
I hope that other retailers in our community will take notice and also take action.
