Photo credit: Little Nest Portraits Charlotte
Remember our People of CLT story on Kimberly Mohns Roberts, author of children's book, Just Perfect? Well, she is going national, or she is hoping her book is. Driven by her teenage struggles with depression and surviving her own suicide attempt, this mom is eager to get her book in the hands of children across the country. Her Kickstarter campaign launches September 5th in conjunction with National Suicide Prevention Month. She is looking to not only raise self-esteem but money for charity.
What made you decide to launch a kickstarter?
Kickstarter is a unique platform where instead of just asking for donations, I get to give people "rewards" for their support. Whether it's a newborn gift set or one of the first copies of my next book, Just Super. As a suicide survivor, I thought there was no better time than in conjunction with National Suicide Prevention Month. I thought I’d be printing a few books for my girls and friends, little did I know how much positive feedback I would receive here in Charlotte. With $10,000, we plan to make Just Perfect available to children nationwide.
What will you specifically do with the money raised from your campaign?
Printing hardcover and paperback copies of Just Perfect
Design and print a complementary coloring book
Design a complementary teacher's guide
Other products including a plush animal and shirts
Additional marketing services to increase awareness and distribution
Retail distribution: costs associated with bookstore shelf space and shipping
Pay my amazing videographer for this Kickstarter campaign
Pay my wonderful graphic designer, who has assisted not only with this book but also with marketing materials
Copyrights and trademarks
So you have another book on the way?
Yes! I'm so excited to share my next book, Just Super with everyone. We have a tentative launch in October, however during my Kickstarter, you will be able to preorder it as a set along with Just Perfect. This next book has a similar message about body image and your uniqueness, focusing on internal "super" strengths. Here is a preview:
Is it challenging balancing motherhood with all of your ambitions?
I can't always do it all, so I'm constantly balancing my life at home, children and my projects. It's never easy, but neither is life. I am finally happy working long hours. I think that's what it is all about, finding your passion. I can truly say that when I look back at these years, I will have no regrets. So I make lists. I create a lot of to-do lists, even this past summer with the kids. I find comfort checking off unique Charlotte experiences, reminding myself that my children are enjoying what life has to offer and how lucky I am to have the capability to watch them experience it.
What do you love about the Charlotte?
Besides all the amazing experiences it provides my children, I love the supportive community. Charlotte is full of amazing entrepreneurs who are ready to build you up and sometimes even ask to enjoy the ride with you. I've been so fortunate to meet and be surrounded by talented individuals who have volunteered their time or money to my mission. Thank you to all of the men and women who have helped me get this far.
Who would you like to extend a special thank you to?
Ryan Causey
Amanda Hollingsworth
Rick Gamertsfelder
AnnaBelle Lloyd
Alice McGinley H.U.G.S.
My M2M Tribe
How are you involved with the Charlotte community and beyond?
So far I have committed to supporting American Foundation for Suicide Prevention and Girls on the Run with the sales of my products. With the success of my Kickstarter campaign, I look forward to distributing more funds to more charitable programs. I believe that I am one piece of the puzzle and want to support other resources for our children and those you are suffering.
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention is dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide. AFSP creates a culture that’s smart about mental health by engaging in the following core strategies:
Funding scientific research
Educating the public about mental health and suicide prevention
Advocating for public policies in mental health and suicide prevention
Supporting survivors of suicide loss and those affected by suicide in our mission
Join me on October 20th for the Out of the Darkness Walk!
Girls on the Run: We envision a world where every girl knows and activates her limitless potential and is free to boldly pursue her dreams. Empowerment, Responsibility, Intentionality, Diversity, Connectedness, Joy, Optimism, Gratitude, Nurturing, Healthy, Open-hearted, Compassion
How can People of CLT connect to you?
Do you have anything planned after this next book?
I'm working with PlayPlay Charlotte to design "interactions" throughout Charlotte, incorporating the "just perfect" message. This will then transition into a play for the very, very young. It's an exciting opportunity as the partnership fits perfectly with my mission to build a foundation of positive self-esteem at a young age.
People of CLT publishes stories about everyday Charlotteans and Carolinians. We celebrate YOUR story because YOU matter. It is our mission to promote inclusiveness, unity, understanding, community, diversity, empathy, and compassion.
Stories have power—they teach, inspire, motivate, and challenge us. Stories help us to not only see others, but to see ourselves more clearly, as we connect with the life stories of those in our community; a community that is strengthened by the power that is unleashed by the collective energy of individual stories.
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