As an inner city elementary school teacher, Sharon Bush witnessed the harsh life of many of her students. Because of those experiences, she has devoted much of her time to children’s issues and to strengthening the environment in which children must grow, live and learn.

In 1988, when Sharon created the Karitas Foundation, she was a young mother with three small children. Her goal: to raise funds by selling Teddy bears and children’s clothing nationally. A large percentage of every sale was distributed around the country to organizations aiding homeless and abused children.

It has always been her belief that if children are taught to help others, they will grow up to be much more sensitive, caring and concerned, compassionate adults. By using Teddy bears in the fund raising efforts, the goal was to interest children as well as parents.

Many community members in Denver and Houston witnessed this mother and her children helping in homeless shelters, in hospitals or at charitable fundraising events.

While Sharon has served on many boards and received numerous honors, the ones that she is most proud of is the “National Mother of the Year” award in 2001 and now this “Mother Hale Award for Mothers Who Make A Difference” award. She is pleased also to be working with her daughter Lauren on the latest Teddy Bear Company.

Sharon says, “If children are encouraged and guided properly, they really can make a difference in this world, in the life of a child.” Thank you to Mother Hale for making this world a better place for all.

Philanthropy, Philanthropist, Real Estate, Women, Women in Business, Female Leadership, Non-Profit & Association,