At Virtue Jewelers, giving back to the community isn't just a business decision; it’s a personal mission for Erdem Kaya, the owner of this beloved Newburyport-based jeweler. Erdem has been a proud Corporate Monarch-Level Sponsor of Lucy's Love Bus for several years, and he’s been personally supporting Love Bus– making a meaningful difference in the lives of children with cancer and their families– for over a decade. We sat down with Erdem to talk about what inspires him to give and the lasting impact it has on him and his team.
Q. What inspired you to start supporting Lucy's Love Bus at the corporate level?
A. I’ve always believed that giving back is one of the most rewarding things we can do, especially when it comes to helping children. There’s something truly special about seeing a child’s smile and knowing you’ve made a positive difference in their life. When I learned about the ways Lucy’s Love Bus helps kids who are struggling—especially those not getting what they need from the healthcare system—I felt an immediate connection to the cause.
I love that Lucy’s Love Bus also cares for the entire family, helping the parents and the siblings too, who can often feel alienated. It touches me on a deep level. Even before I had my own children, I felt driven to support this cause. Now, as a father of two, it’s even more meaningful to me. It’s just something inside me that drives me to support these families—it’s not about saying it, it’s about feeling it in your heart.
Q. How does partnering with a charity focused on childhood cancer align with your company’s values or mission?
A. Before I had my own business, my dream was always to support a cause if I was fortunate enough to do so. For me, giving back has never been about advertising or promoting my business. It’s about my personal values and the privilege I now have, thanks to my loyal clients, to contribute to something I believe in. I believe every child deserves to grow up happy and healthy. Partnering with Lucy’s Love Bus aligns perfectly with my personal mission, and it brings me joy to know that in some small way, I can help make a difference.
Q. What impact do you hope your contributions have on pediatric cancer families?
A. Even if I’m able to give the families and the kids a moment of relief away from this stressful situation, that’s more than enough satisfaction for me. When they’re not thinking about anything else—just enjoying that momentary relief—that’s what truly fulfills me. It’s such a rewarding feeling to help create that kind of joy and peace for them.
Q. Can you share a memorable experience or story from your involvement with Lucy's Love Bus that had a lasting impact on your team?
A. One of the most powerful moments for me was during a jewelry-making course I held for the kids and their families, a few years back. Even just thinking about it brings tears to my eyes. Seeing the joy on the kids' faces and the happiness in their parents—it was truly moving. At first, you could see the weight that the parents were carrying - sadness and stress - but they were trying so hard to stay strong for their children. As the course went on, it was as if all of their worries melted away, even if just for a few hours. That experience was so impactful, seeing how a simple creative activity could provide such comfort and relief.
Q. What would you say to other companies or individuals considering supporting Lucy's Love Bus?
A. It’s a no-brainer. Why wouldn’t you support an organization that’s bringing comfort and joy to children with cancer? It’s such an easy decision. If you want to make a real difference in someone’s life, this is the way to do it.
