If you've been following me on social media (outside of this blog), you may already be familiar with one of my hobbies - The Barbie Girls Project. It's something I mention in my bio, and I regularly post content on my Facebook page. Or, you may have seen pictures and videos on Instagram and had no idea what was going on.
Barbies Have Always Meant Something to Me
For as long as I can remember, Barbie dolls have always been a part of my life in some way. My very first Barbie was given to me when I was just six years old, and for the longest time, I had only a handful of dolls. There was something about their unique sense of style, accessories, and overall appeal that endeared me to them, despite the fact that they looked nothing like me! Maybe that's why I took to them as I did? Whatever it was, I eventually had a pretty big collection by the time I was eight years old, when I was visiting India for the first time to meet my extended family. Back then, Barbie was just arriving in the country that same year, so no one had ever seen the doll before, and I can't tell you how many men, women, and children found the doll interesting. I've mentioned it in more detail in Rebranded by Faith and also in my article Giving Wisely: Helping the Underprivileged, One Child at a Time. And, when the opportunity arose, I gave away two dolls to two friends I'd made. Their reactions changed my life. It wasn't until I became a mom that I found a way to recreate that experience with my daughter.
Donations Received
Over the years, I'd estimate we've collected and donated close to 500 dolls - all to needy girls in our local area. The thing is, now more than ever, I'm committed to donating Barbies, because I continually see how many little girls still find joy in playing with Barbie dolls. Moreover, adults are just as eager about this because they usually contact me, desperate to regift their dolls long left boxed up like a scene right out of the Toy Story movie franchise. In this month alone, I've heard from folks at least once a week, all asking me questions about what to do with their dolls, and if I can do something with them, or give them suggestions.
For a little show-and-tell, here's a highlight video:
So the next time you see any mention of Barbie dolls, now you'll know! And if ever you'd like to help the cause or spread the word, feel free to drop us a line. Many thanks to everyone who help continue making this possible!
