Ciearia Alexander

When Ciearia went on maternity leave with her fourth child in early 2024, she found herself contemplating life beyond her regular job. Drawing from her experience planning birthday celebrations for her children, she recognized a persistent challenge many families faced: creating memorable parties without breaking the bank. “I kept receiving community requests for help with parties,” she recalls. “That’s when I thought, ‘What if I did this as a business?'” This idea, combined with a recurring sign she saw as meaningful – the number 444 – led her to create her first party package, and within a month, her weekend calendar was full of bookings.

Kangaroo Kids offers a full range of indoor and outdoor entertainment services, from bounce houses and face painting to cotton candy and homemade snow cones. But what sets the business apart is its emphasis on inclusive entertainment – a priority deeply rooted in her personal experience as a mother of a child with ADHD and another with high-functioning autism. “I want activities where everyone, a whole family, can participate,” says Ciearia, who manages five to six events each weekend. This commitment to accessibility was powerfully demonstrated during a senior center carnival, where elderly residents found joy in experiences that sparked cherished memories.

While searching for small business resources during her full-time job, Ciearia discovered the Community Investment Collaborative (CIC) through a Google search. “When I found the Spring 2024 Culpeper-Orange Entrepreneur Workshop, applications were nearly closed,” she explains. “But Christine called me and immediately made me feel welcome.”

Participating in CIC’s 16-week program became a significant milestone for her, equipping her with both the practical tools and supportive community she needed to elevate Kangaroo Kids from an idea to a thriving business. “The workshop gave me a strong foundation for growing my business and taught me the value of connections. The genuine care from CIC has meant everything. I feel I’ve gained lifelong friends through the course,” she reflects. This support network has been particularly valuable as she navigates the challenges of running a business while raising four children, including managing childcare responsibilities.

After completing the workshop, Ciearia continued her entrepreneurial education by joining CIC’s Financial Management Program. “FMP was incredibly supportive. Molly was kind and understanding, especially during challenging times when my husband suffered a stroke and I faced personal health challenges. She even offered to support me at the hospital. I was able to set up a business bank account and get my finances in order. I truly appreciate the guidance CIC provides and look forward to the opportunities ahead.”

With momentum building, Ciearia sees a bigger picture for Kangaroo Kids. She envisions expanding beyond mobile services to establish a permanent location featuring a parent lounge, interactive games, and workshops. However, she faces significant challenges, particularly regarding affordable commercial space in Gordonsville, Virginia, where she is located.

While Ciearia confronts these obstacles, the foundation provided by CIC continues to influence her approach. “The most important thing with starting a business is praying and positioning yourself to receive,” she reflects. “Your posture does matter because if you have your head down and you’re not looking forward, you could fall.”

Her message to aspiring entrepreneurs echoes the inclusive spirit of her business and the supportive ethos of CIC: “Each of us is unique and has God-given talents we can put to work. Constantly believe in yourself even if you don’t feel it.”