We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Deon Branch. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Deon below.
Alright, Deon thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. How did you come up with the idea for your business?
During 2021 I witnessed so many of my family, friends, and colleagues being burnt out and exhausted because they had to take on extra jobs and responsibilities. Roles shifted and we had to adjust to a different way of making ends meet. Many people lost loved ones. I felt a need to inspire others because they were so burdened. COVID changed the financial and familial dynamics for many.
I witnessed my co-workers struggle to keep a smile on their faces while having to hold it together for so many others. People just looked drained. It seemed like a kind word or a decent gesture could lighten their load. I started making little homemade treat baskets and gifts to put a smile on their faces. It started with homemade baked goods and transitioned to little gifts and thank you cards. Everyone seemed so happy that someone took the time to tell them thank you.
When I gave an elderly lady a basket, she started crying. She shared what she had been going through at home and on the job. It was then that I realized that I needed to continue to motivate and recognize people for going above and beyond what is expected. Some people never feel that their contributions make a difference. After seeing the smiles that were generated because of a basket, I decided to call the gift baskets, “Pails of Sunshine.”
I started asking people from the community to nominate others who they felt needed some joy. We started giving Pails of Sunshine to schools, struggling mothers, caregivers, cancer survivors, underprivileged children and adults, special needs, and anyone that made a difference. It grew to having programs and activities for the community. At each event we give Pails of Sunshine to certain individuals but also have free events for everyone to enjoy. We now adopt classrooms, daycares, and other facilities for Valentine’s Day, Easter, and Halloween. We also recognize trailblazers in our schools and communities. Our cancer awareness program spotlights the survivors and encourages the families and loved ones who may be caregivers or dealing with loss due to cancer.
I was inspired to add the cancer component because I lost my mother due to cancer and cancer runs on both sides of my family. It is a way of healing for me. Each time I give a Pail of Sunshine, it reminds me that nothing should be taken for granted. Each person has value.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
I always loved helping people and giving kind words. I am a science teacher. Each day, I get to tell students how much they are loved and valued. I always like to give rewards and treats. It seems easier and more economical to make things for my students. I enjoy seeing them smile. In my spare time, I can be found making arts and crafts or baking. I make baskets for all occasions. If I know the interests of my students, I can create an inspirational and motivational basket for anyone. My business is unique because I ask others to adopt children and adults to give them items for certain holidays and occasions. Many people donate to be able to put a smile on the face of a child. Sometimes they are anonymous. The children are always so excited. Everyone gets something.
I am most proud of how the community rallies together to have free opportunities for the children and adults. The first time we did the cancer program, it brought tears to my eyes and many of the participants. It was so emotional because people really opened up about their struggles. We all had tissues by the time the second person spoke. I have never experienced anything like this. Each year the program grows and has to be moved to a different location. I was proud to see that people can be genuine and kind. It is nice to see that there are still kind and caring people in the world.
Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?
I believe my experience as a classroom teacher has helped build my reputation within my market. I have been teaching for 26 years. I am also a church elder. Many of the people know me because I have been active in the community. I have taught most of their children or relatives. I am also active in the church.
Can you talk to us about how you funded your business?
I am a non-profit. I initially started by working overtime after school and some tutoring programs. I also did online bake sales. Most of my funding is from donations.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.pailsofsunshine.com
- Facebook: Deon Branch, Pails of Sunshine LLC
