Dopamine Box

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Dopamine Box *

The idea sparked when a birth mom we knew personally from the Resilient retreat was going through something unimaginable and so we wanted to send a little something to say, “We see you. We care for you.”

Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that brings the feeling of happiness, and each box is curated to spark that feeling. It holds some playful whimsy, like a piece of our retreats sent right in the mail. It’s a way to support birth moms beyond the retreat.

What’s in a box

Past boxes have included items such as:

  • Gift card for practical needs

  • Coloring book & supplies

  • Prompted journal

  • Sharpie pens

  • Bubbles (who doesn’t find bubbles joyful?!)

  • Small game to play with her parented kids

  • Handwritten card from a fellow birth mom

  • Memorial item for loss of a family member

Each box is packed with intentionality and attention to detail. It’s a mix of fun to bring a smile, things to do for some screen-free time without having to think too hard, with a dash of tangible hope. Each box includes at least $100 worth (no, really, it does!) of meaningful products We are big fans of no-junk fillers.

This is a great option for adoptive families, friends, or loved ones to provide a custom care package for a birth mom you love.

Know a birth mom who could use some happy mail?

Fill out the form below so we can shop & ship for you!

Or, if you just want to donate, you can help us cover the cost of the box and shipping.

I know a birth mom
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  • "Thank you guys so much I just got the box and honestly really brought tears to my eyes. It could not have been at a better time. I appreciate you all and listening to us."

    birth mom

  • "Your gift is exactly what I need. Something that doesn't require me to think or answer questions. Something that just says 'We're here and we're thinking of you.' It's such a thoughtful gift. I cannot thank you enough"

    birth mom

how we decide what’s in the box

(and some science behind it)

  • “Adults tend to forget how to play and be free. Coloring can take us back to our childhood and bring back memories. It can be a pleasurable activity that is simple, distracting, and fun,” Goldman says.

  • Journaling has many benefits from a neuroscience perspective from processing emotions and feelings to documenting memories and more. However, we know sitting down to write doesn’t come naturally to everyone, so we love a prompted journal!

  • Counselor Maegan says, “Board games offer countless benefits, including opportunities for bonding, emotional well-being, emotional regulation, and safe self-expression. My favorite aspect is the quality time spent connecting with others, fostering a sense of belonging and security while enjoying friendly competition in a controlled environment.”

  • Gift cards can help provide a tangible need, whether that’a meal delivery to not have to think about dinner or a larger need like a bill that’s due.

  • Favorite foods can bring a boost of dopamine! Specifically, chocolate is shown to be scientifically beneficial.

  • Different seasons of life and surrounding circumstances can help us know how to personalize a box. Whether she’s a new birth mom, a single mom working hard, or grieving a loss in her life, we can customize to help her feel seen.

  • Being a birth mom can feel isolating. Just knowing someone who has been in her shoes is the one shopping and packing this box is a reminder that there is a light at the end of the tunnel.

    It’s an example of resiliency to see a birth mom a few steps ahead in the journey and the comfort of relatability.

Help us reach more birth moms needing happy mail in a hard time

Donate