News

Retailers Raise Funds & Hope

BY

Fort Wayne, Indiana (January 5, 2005) — Kudos to all independent Vera Bradley retailers who hosted special events during National Breast Cancer Awareness month (October) and throughout the year. From selling New Hope Journals, to holding Ribbons for Life pink ribbon campaigns, to donating a percentage of sales on breast cancer-related (and/or pink) products in their stores, retailers have taken a wide and varied approach in creating their events.

A very special mention to Paper Scene in Seekonk, Massachusetts, who raised over $7,000 in October 2004! Regarding their outstanding accomplishment, owner Linda Warzycha reports:

“My Vera Bradley Rep, June Costa, talked to me about doing a Ribbons for Life promotion. I immediately said, ‘I’ll do one better than that … I’ll do a walk.’ I have been in business twenty years and have lost customers to breast cancer and have current ones who are battling the disease.” Linda created the A Step Towards A Cure walk to honor her customers, but says, "I never estimated the response that we would have!” The night following her event, Linda recalls, "I realized I had actually made a difference. It was a very comforting feeling.”

The dedication that participating Vera Bradley retailers have shown in the fight against breast cancer is truly inspiring. Our sincere thanks to each and every store that made the additional effort to support the cause.