At the heart of the American Girl Doll Pink Ribbon Project is a simple but powerful idea: every child deserves something special to call their own. Sue and Roger Graham began restoring American Girl dolls as a way to bring comfort and joy to foster children, turning a personal passion into a meaningful mission. What started as a small effort has grown steadily over the years, with the couple restoring dolls and donating them to foster organizations across their community. In 2025 alone, they restored more than 120 dolls. From careful repairs to beautiful presentation, each doll is wrapped in cello and finished with pink ribbon bows using Paper Mart supplies, making every gift feel extra special for the child who receives it.
About American Girl Doll Pink Ribbon Project
Tell us a little bit about yourself and your business! How did you get inspired to start?
I’m co-founder of a nonprofit (1-Closet) focused on clothing foster teens, we closed in 2020. 2012, I returned to work full time and wanted to do something on a small scale to make a difference for foster children. As a creative person and a doll collector as a child, after great thought I researched how to restore American Girl Dolls. My husband I purchased everything, on rare occasions someone would give us a doll. The first year about 17, 2nd year ~40, we continued to grow with our 3rd year 70, 2025 has been incredible with a restoration of 120 to 11 foster organizations, another is pending. My home turned upside down with 3 rooms turned into an American Girl Doll restoration and package room complete with small pink ribbon satin bows on the right wrist, wrapped tightly in cello, completed with a pink ribbon bow, all products of Paper Mart.
Do you have any favorite creations that you want to share with us?
There are several dolls I feel became extra special, one was a re-wigged doll also needing new eyes, she was paired with dark glasses and a guide dog, my father in law and nephew are blind. There are others like an Indian doll with a jeweled nose and added jewel on her forehead, dressed in ruby jewel tones.
American Girl Doll Pink Ribbon Project with Paper Mart
It’s important to support family owned businesses, they provide employment and are fabric of communities.
– Sue of American Girl Doll Pink Ribbon Project
As you know, we’re celebrating 100+ years as a family-owned business, and we couldn’t have done it without your support throughout the years. What are your thoughts on the importance of shopping family-owned and local?
It’s important to support family owned businesses, they provide employment and are fabric of communities.
How did you hear about Paper Mart, how long have you been a customer with us, and what keeps you coming back?
I’ve been purchasing special candy boxes for the toffee I make at the holidays and through the year.
What are your favorite Paper Mart products and why do you love them?
The lightly sprinkled snow cello wrap, Pink Ribbon and Ballotin boxes.
Shop Sue’s Favorites
Discover More Gifting & Packaging Essentials:
Paper Mart Fosters Your Creativity
Wherever you are in building your business, having the right packaging can make all the difference. At Paper Mart, we’re passionate about helping you showcase your products with style and confidence. Whether it’s adding a finishing touch with ribbon, choosing the perfect bag, or wrapping it all up beautifully — we’re here to help you find exactly what you need to stand out.
All images are courtesy of Sue Graham of American Girl Pink Ribbon Project unless otherwise indicated by caption. If you’d like to learn more about this Project, visit their Facebook Page here: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577282104274.
To stay updated on all things Paper Mart – subscribe to our email list here! You’ll be the first to know about any new blog posts, seasonal promotions, and sales.
If you’d like to see more of our wonderful customers or learn about our Paper Mart family, check out our other Spotlights.