Philanthropic bobblehead store opens in Cochrane

COCHRANE - There’s a new game changer in Cochrane, and they’re head-hunting.

Gamechanger Bobbleheads is looking for a few good heads to replicate with their state-of-the-art 3D printing process, which touts a two-hour turnaround time between photo session and completed bobblehead.

And they’re selling more than just the wobbly-headed dolls.

The new company’s website includes a mission statement that their ambition “is to empower you as a person of great strength and courage. As you see yourself printed in a “power pose” understand that you matter, you are loved and, Yes! You ARE a Game Changer!”

That mantra is fleshed out a bit further down the page, where it tells prospective clients they’re getting much more out of their purchase than a personalized wobbly doll.

The message exhorts potential buyers to embrace the experience, explaining partially where the company’s name originated: “When you see yourself on your mantle or car dash, be reminded that you are someone of influence and importance.”

One of the first customers at their grand opening on Canada Day was all smiles as he was presented his bobblehead, but not before owner Jody Ohlhauser made him recite the mantra to his satisfaction.

“Ok, now say, I am a gamechanger!” Ohlhauser told the customer, who just so happened to be Mayor Jeff Genung.

Not satisfied with the level of passion in the mayor’s original delivery, Ohlhauser told Genung to try again with a little more “oomph” this time.

The doll was then presented, with Genung’s wife Danielle observing the festivities in the background.

Ohlhauser says the company’s focus is heavily laden with self-empowerment messages that go beyond marketing wonky dolls. Another quote prominently displayed on the website is from Christian D. Larson, which reads: “Believe in yourself and all that you are. Know that there is something inside you that is greater than any obstacle.”

Ohlhauser is practicing what he preaches when it comes to making a difference.

With every two bobbleheads purchased, he said a donation will be made that will help restore the sight of a blind individual in a developing country. The donations are aimed at providing cataract surgeries for women and children in under-developed countries through the SEVA Canada foundation.

Seva-funded pediatric programs start with outreach into poor and remote communities. Once children who are blind are identified, the team arranges surgery at the nearest hospital that offers pediatric ophthalmology. Families are given transportation, accommodation, and food during this time. Meanwhile, parents receive counselling and a long-term follow-up program to ensure children have healthy vision for life.

Technically a pop-up store, anyone interested in receiving their own bobblehead will have to make an appointment soon. Gamechangers will only be located at 202A River Ave. in Cochrane until the end of August.

Appointments to have a personalized bobblehead made (which requires an in-person, 3D photo session) for the $150 dolls can be made at gamechangerbobbles.com.