The Coral & Blue Mission began with a simple conversation that turned into something much greater. I met a deeply devoted Sunday School teacher in Burundi named Maurice. We started exchanging stories about our lives and cultures, his in Burundi, mine in the United States. He was especially curious about my company and the tradition of handwritten thank-you notes, something that was unfamiliar to him.

The Story Behind the Coral & Blue Mission in Burundi

When he asked what a thank-you note was, I explained the meaning behind it; the power of expressing gratitude through writing. As a gesture of friendship, I sent some Coral & Blue stationery for his classroom. The children loved it. The oversized lines and open space for artwork weren’t just practical—they were empowering.

They began using the stationery not only to write thank-you notes to God, their parents, teachers, and friends, but also as a tool for academics. The notes helped improve their reading, writing, and drawing skills. Maurice shared that he has the children read their letters aloud. That simple act of sharing their words with one another created unexpected healing. It helped them realize they weren’t alone in their struggles. They found connection in shared experiences, gratitude, and faith.

What started as a small cultural exchange grew into something much bigger: a program that nurtures creativity, self-expression, literacy, and emotional healing. That’s how the Coral & Blue Mission was born.

Today, the Coral & Blue Mission has expanded to reach over 8,000 children and families in both urban and rural regions of Burundi. As the poorest country in the world, Burundi’s needs go far beyond academics. So our mission grew too. Alongside literacy and creative learning, we now help provide essential school materials, backpacks, desks for classrooms, food, and clothing—ensuring children have not only tools to learn, but the support to thrive.

After spending time in Burundi this summer, I witnessed something that truly surprised me—pure, uninhibited joy. Despite the hardships they face, the people of Burundi were full of smiles, laughter, and pride—especially the children. I saw it most clearly when they wrote their letters and shared them aloud. The joy and confidence they felt in expressing themselves was unmistakable.

I remember thinking: This is something I need to bring back to the United States.

There is so much we can learn from these children and families—how they find joy and strength through family, faith, friendship, fellowship, and creative self-expression through writing and art. In a world that often feels disconnected, their example is a powerful reminder of what truly matters.