Mar 4, 2024
nora fleming set to raise more than $1M for St. Jude

nora fleming, the brand known for its unique and collectible serveware and minis, is on track to donate a sum of more than $1 million to support the life-saving mission of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital when the six-year partnership culminates this spring.

Founder Nora Napientek. Photos courtesy of nora fleming.
Founder Nora Napientek. Photo courtesy of nora fleming.

Since the initiation of the partnership in 2018, nora fleming has released special St. Jude minis each year, dedicating a portion of the purchase price to the renowned children’s research hospital — nine collectible minis were produced over the years. To coincide with nora fleming’s 20th anniversary this year, the collection will be completed with the latest mini — called “Color Me Happy” — launching on March 4, along with a keepsake box that can hold the entire nine-piece series.

The following minis represent nora fleming’s heartfelt commitment to supporting the vital work of St. Jude:

  • Summer 2018: Bear Hugs, bear and wagon
  • Winter 2019: Lots of Love, turquoise double hearts
  • Winter 2020: Inch by Inch, caterpillar
  • Summer 2020: All Aboard, choo choo train
  • Winter 2021: Magical Castle, sandcastle
  • Summer 2021: Whale, Hello There!, blue whale
  • Spring 2022: Purple Flower Power, purple flower
  • Spring 2023: Jumpin’ Puddles Yellow, yellow rainboots
  • Winter 2024: Color Me Happy, crayons (launching March 4)

Deeply ingrained in nora fleming’s philosophy is a dedication to philanthropy, according to the company. This partnership with St. Jude highlights the company’s ongoing commitment to charitable causes. The success of the St. Jude mini collection has not only brought joy to collectors, but also contributed significantly to advancing the St. Jude mission.

“Our tiny company of only 20 people is set to raise more than $1 million,” said Janice Christensen, president of nora fleming. “It’s amazing to see what we can achieve together, focusing our efforts on a cause that touches many, including some of our own team members affected by childhood cancer.

“Every year, the St. Jude mini sells out faster, showing the growing support and love from our community. This has been a fulfilling journey, demonstrating that even small teams can make a significant impact.”

Echoing the words of St. Jude founder Danny Thomas, “I would rather have a million people give me one dollar than one give me a million. That way you get a million people involved.”

nora fleming encourages other small to mid-sized companies to consider the power of collective giving. “A million dollars may seem daunting, but every little bit counts,” Christensen said.

“We deeply appreciate nora fleming and its family of customers, who have shown us that tiny collectibles can make a big difference, no matter the occasion,” said Richard C. Shadyac Jr., president and CEO of ALSAC, the fundraising and awareness organization for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. “Since 2018, the nora fleming family’s partnership, generosity and mission-centric commitment have helped St. Jude provide care and improve survival rates for children everywhere making a difference in the lives of families here and around the world.”

In addition to the St. Jude series, nora fleming has launched the “band together with nora fleming” initiative, featuring silicone bands where colors signify various causes, such as: A Silver Lining Foundation, Pickles Group, The Ross K. MacNeill Foundation, Totally Positive Productions, Friends of the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County, Face the Future Foundation, Foster Progress, Open Books, and Hope for the Day. This initiative underscores the brand’s innovative approach to fundraising, allowing customers to support meaningful causes while enjoying their products.




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