Reflecting on the past few years, I’m struck by how life’s big milestones have reshaped my perspective. 2018 was a transformative year for me—one filled with both achievements and challenges. It was during this whirlwind that I learned an invaluable lesson: with a growing platform comes a greater responsibility to give back to the community that has supported you every step of the way.
Before experiencing success on my own terms, I once believed that only those with abundant wealth could make a meaningful impact. However, life has taught me that giving back transcends financial contributions. Whether through donating time, sharing awareness, or simply lending a compassionate ear, every act of kindness matters. This ethos forms the heart of the #12DaysofCHRISelle, a project I started three years ago not only to offer exciting giveaways but also as a platform to support some of my favorite charities.
Since its inception, the 12 Days of CHRISelle has grown into something truly special. With the support of incredible sponsors—each committed to contributing to the cause—we have managed to donate over $70,000 to charities close to my heart. It’s a testament to the power of community: when we all come together, even small gestures can create significant change.
The holiday season, while joyous for many, can be a difficult time for those who feel isolated or underserved. This reality fuels my passion for giving back. I have a deep connection to Baby2Baby, an organization that provides essential items like diapers and other necessities to children and families living in poverty. As a mother, I have grown increasingly aware of how many everyday blessings I often take for granted. With every diaper change, I remind myself of the fortune of never having to worry about something as basic as a baby’s needs. It’s heartbreaking to hear stories of mothers forced to choose between feeding their children or affording a fresh diaper. No parent should ever have to make such an impossible decision.
This gratitude for the little things has become a driving force in my life. I feel incredibly fortunate for the opportunities that have come my way, and I firmly believe that it is our duty to share that abundance with those less fortunate. My journey into motherhood has deepened my understanding of what truly matters, and it has ignited an even greater desire to give back in any way I can.
In the spirit of this ethos, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to all of you who have supported my blog and the 12 Days of CHRISelle over the years. Your unwavering loyalty has not only propelled me forward but has also enabled us to make a tangible difference in the lives of many. Together, we have contributed to a variety of causes—from City Growers and Casa Crisal, a women’s shelter in Mexico, to Feeding America, MADE SAFE (a non-profit working to eliminate toxic chemicals from products), and The Burt’s Bees Foundation. Each of these organizations plays a crucial role in uplifting communities, especially during times when support is most needed.
For me, giving back is more than a charitable act—it’s a way of life. It’s about using the platform I’ve built to shine a light on issues that matter and to inspire others to do the same. Whether it’s volunteering a few hours of your time, donating resources, or simply spreading the word about a cause you believe in, every contribution counts. And sometimes, it’s the non-material gifts—like love, support, and encouragement—that have the most profound impact on our lives.
As we celebrate Day 4 of the 12 Days of CHRISelle, I want to challenge you to think about the ways you can make a difference in your own life and in the lives of those around you. Consider the most meaningful non-material gift you’ve ever received. Was it a word of encouragement, a heartfelt conversation, or perhaps a shared memory that changed your perspective? These are the moments that shape us, remind us of our humanity, and inspire us to pay it forward.
I encourage you, this holiday season, to give back in any way that resonates with you. Whether your contribution is big or small, intentional acts of kindness can ripple out to create lasting change. After all, it isn’t always about the amount—it’s about the thought, care, and effort behind each gesture.
Thank you for being part of this journey. Your support makes it possible for us to continue making a difference, one act of kindness at a time. I’m excited to see how each of us will contribute to creating a more compassionate, connected community. And as we move forward, I invite you to share with me: What is the most meaningful non-material item someone has ever given you? Your stories of love and generosity may just inspire someone else to make a difference.
Let’s continue to spread hope, love, and kindness—not just during the holidays, but every day. Together, we can build a legacy of giving back that transcends material wealth and enriches lives. See you tomorrow for the next chapter in our shared journey.
