Hey there, friends!
Hope you’re doing amazing! As my dad would say, “If you’re not feeling wonderful, then make it so!” And as for me? I’m diving headfirst into my favorite season. The smell of pumpkins, cozy sweaters, and the comforting chaos of a full schedule—what’s not to love about fall? Normally, I’d keep this kind of rambling in my personal journal, but hey, social media has changed the game, so here I am sharing my heart with you.
Recently, something unexpected happened that’s got me opening up a bit. Someone posted online suggesting that No Sugar Baker should be donating to specific causes—without knowing what we already support or the struggles we’ve quietly faced this past year. This hit close to home, especially given how many people we know have had a rough year themselves. We’ve seen our dear friends face unimaginable losses, and we walk beside them, understanding the challenges they’ve endured.
Yes, it stung a bit. I deleted the post faster than you can say “No Sugar Baker cinnamon roll,” but it got me thinking. Sometimes, maybe it’s worth sharing the things we usually keep private. Even the Hubs, who would defend me in a heartbeat, didn’t hear about this because he knows what we do, and he knows who we are. We don’t just talk the talk; we’re out here walking the walk.
Over the past year or so, we’ve faced our own battles, with recovery and health bills that piled high, but it’s never stopped us from giving to causes we care about. So here’s a peek at some of the places our hearts—and dollars—have gone, with each gift over $1,000:
– All Star Children’s Foundation, Sarasota, FL – This place is a beacon of hope for kids with foster care backgrounds, and it’s led by treasured friends. We’re so proud to support them.
– GiGi’s Playhouse, Fargo, ND, & Twin Cities, MN – GiGi’s makes magic for kids and young adults with an extra chromosome, with mentoring and tutoring programs that we adore!
– Challenger’s Baseball, Venice, FL – Growing up, Chris played sports, so we love the physical and personal growth that Challenger Baseball brings to kids with special needs.
– The Haven, Sarasota, FL – A community brimming with life, achievement, and friendship, The Haven serves people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. It’s always a joy to cook alongside our friends here, building memories and supporting their incredible accomplishments.
– The Bel13ve Foundation, Minnetonka, MN – The Jablonski family has been on a journey of inspiring progress in spinal cord injury recovery. We believe, just like they do, that one day Jack will be up and skating again.
– Wishes-N-More, Minneapolis, MN – This wonderful team makes dreams come true for kids fighting life-threatening conditions. They add so much joy to tough days without padding the budget with extra administrative costs!
– Camp Knutson, Cross Lake, MN – A camp that feels like home, welcoming youth and adults with various needs. We were thrilled to be there during heart conditions week, witnessing the joy on everyone’s faces.
And that’s just the start! My mom dreamed up our own nonprofit nearly a decade ago, helping people with intellectual and developmental disabilities gain the confidence to travel independently. This year, we made it all the way to Alaska with ten incredible travelers! Margaret’s Missions so perfectly named—I do say!
And here’s a little sneak peek into the future: in 2025, No Sugar Baker and our family are gearing up to spread the love—and the dollars—even further south! As we continue to grow, we’re excited to support more causes in Arizona, Texas, Louisiana, and beyond. We can’t wait to make a difference in these communities and bring our sweet, sugar-free mission to more places that feel like family.
Thanks for being part of this journey with us—here’s to a bright, giving, and delicious future!
With love and gratitude,
Jayne
America’s No Sugar Baker
Leave A Comment