Inclusion

Robyn Zimmer is the proud mom of a 34-year-old-son with special needs. Her journey as a mother to a son who is disabled ultimately inspired her to create her own jewelry line – one that donates a portion of its profits to charity. All of Zimmer’s jewelry features her now-signature logo – a single square embraced by circles – the symbol which also inspired the line’s name, Embrace the Difference. Since starting up, the Buffalo, New York-based founder has achieved numerous major milestones in her entrepreneurial journey – but becoming a national partner of the Special Olympics might be her biggest win yet. Here's our lightly edited Q&A, from The Story Exchange 1,000+ Stories Project. How is your business different from others in your industry? Our philanthropic nature sets us apart. With each purchase, we donate 10% of the profits back to charity. This allows customers to feel good about their purchase, knowing they’re contributing to a good cause while buying beautiful, meaningful jewelry. Tell us about your biggest success so far. In 2020, we were honored as a Big Find Winner by QVC, a moment that felt like the culmination of years of hard work and passion. It was a thrilling recognition of our mission to spread kindness and inclusion. Being chosen was a reminder that people really do resonate with our message: No matter our differences, we are all connected. What is your top challenge and how have you addressed it? Just one week after my QVC Big Find appearance, the world was plunged into uncertainty as the pandemic shut the world down. Like so many others, we went into quarantine. After three years of navigating this new world, I had to decide how to move forward. It was during this time that I learned the power of community – I reached out for help and advice, and through this found a team of incredible women who helped me brainstorm and create a plan for the future of my business. Together, we set the stage for a new chapter, one filled with hope and resilience. Have you experienced any significant personal situations that have affected your business decisions? Raising a son with special needs has been a journey filled with both challenges and moments of profound joy. The support my son, Sam, has received from people who love him for exactly who he is, has made all the difference in his life – and in mine. These are the sorts of experiences that inspired the creation of my jewelry line. What is your biggest tip for other startup entrepreneurs? Don’t go it alone. Network and seek out support from others. Running your own business can feel isolating at times, so building a circle of support can make all the difference in your journey. How do you find inspiration on your darkest days? I find comfort in having a goal to work toward, and something to look forward to that brings light to even the darkest days. And, I always remind myself that tomorrow is another day — a new chance for something better. What is your go-to song to get motivated on tough days? "Don’t Stop Believing" by Journey. It lifts my spirits and reminds me to keep pushing forward. Who is your most important role model? My son, Sam. He is not only my role model, but the very heart of my business. His kindness knows no bounds, and he treats everyone he meets with such warmth and acceptance. He inspires me every day to be better, and to spread that same kindness. Instagram: @EmbracetheDifferenceFacebook: @EmbracetheDifference Share your story! Check out our Advice + Tips for entrepreneurs starting-upWatch our latest videosSubscribe to our podcast

Inclusion

A Jewelry Line Partners with Special Olympics

And the Oscar Goes to: Films With Diverse Casts and Crews, Starting in 2024

The Story Exchange

Inclusion

A Jewelry Line Partners with Special Olympics

And the Oscar Goes to: Films With Diverse Casts and Crews, Starting in 2024

The Story Exchange

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