While most local youngsters spent their lazy summer days hanging out with friends or playing video games, Georgetown’s Teagan MacKay was busy devoting her time to a good cause.
The entrepreneurial youth runs her own business, BB Jewelry, and donates half of the proceeds to charity. In the past she’s supported McMaster Children’s Hospital, which treated her friend’s brother when he was fighting cancer.
Now, she’s turning over 50 per cent of BB Jewelry’s earnings to her school, so far contributing about $300.
“It makes me feel really nice knowing I can help people,” said the enthusiastic 10-year-old. “It’s also something that I think is fun to do.”
MacKay makes a variety of bracelets for youth and adults, with one of her most popular products being a set of two matching bracelets sized for a parent and a child. The $5 set comes with a little poem that provides reassurances for kids who may be anxious about being away from mom and dad when they go to school or daycare.
“It makes them feel more comfortable - like your parents are still there with you,” she explained.
What started as a small venture at the end of the MacKay family’s driveway last year has grown into a booming business. The youngster had a booth at the Georgetown Farmers’ Market for three weekends over the summer and reports that she sold out every time.
Word about her business also spread very quickly once another local resident posted about it in the Georgetown Mommies Facebook group.
“Shortly after that my mom’s phone started blowing up,” she said. “People are very supportive.”
As if giving half her earnings to charity isn’t enough, MacKay also uses some of her personal earnings to buy other products that support charitable causes, and gave her siblings some cash for back-to-school shopping.
Needless to say, her parents Tiffany and Will MacKay couldn’t be more proud.
“People have asked us many times, how did you get her to do this? We just say she indicated that she wanted to, so we let her try,” said Will. “We’ve sat in the background and helped her where we can. But Teagan has been the driver of this one.”
At the end of the day, MacKay said she believes everyone has the power to make a difference.
“No matter my age or size, there’s still a way I can help.”
Those interested in ordering from BB Jewelry can email [email protected].
