Our goal with the candle sale is to spread kindness far and wide.

Not only does each candle purchase spread our message of kindness, but the proceeds generated from the candle sale will also be used to spread kindness.

Through the teamwork of Breakaway Academy student-athletes, last year’s candle sale generated over $10,000 which started a partnership between Michael’s Light and the Be Like Tommy Project. Together, we started Original Me clubs which turn individuality into a culture of kindness in local middle schools.

For this year’s candle sale, 50% of the proceeds will support Original Me middle school clubs and 50% will be donated by Michael’s Light to a charity of your choice. There is a small catch! The charity must focus on one of the following.

1. Provides or strengthens youth mental health services, or

2. Removes financial barriers to participating in youth sports or other youth programs, or

3. Creates a culture of belonging & community for youth

Now it’s time to do a little research and vote!  Here are three Minnesota-based non-profit organizations for you to consider. We think they are pretty cool! Or you can vote for your own suggestion!

Sophie’s Squad (youth-athlete mental health, with hockey, lacrosse & soccer ambassadors)

https://sophiessquad.org/about/ 

Provides education and awareness to improve the mental health of MN youth athletes

In Sports Foundation (access to youth sports for kids in MN)

https://insportsfoundation.org/ 

Gives all MN kids the opportunity to play sports, regardless of financial and environmental barriers

You Are Not Alone (dog therapy in MN schools)

https://ynausa.org/for-schools-districts/

Partners with school districts within MN and beyond, bringing volunteer therapy dog teams into schools.