I started selling fairly traded crafts in 2010 after two friends from two different countries asked me to help sell handmade items to help women and orphans. Recycled paper jewelry from Jinja, Uganda, and silk brocade handbags from South China were the main products I sold at local events, churches, and homes. I’ve gradually added more products as the business has grown. Each item is uniquely made and provides income for artisans in developing countries.
My motivation for starting the business was to generate income to pay the monthly sponsorship I began in 2009 for my Sister Connection widow, Genevieve, in Burundi. I soon surpassed my goal and was able to earn enough to sponsor a little girl in India through Childcare Ministries (ICCM).
I met Genevieve in 2009 on my first trip to Africa.
After Genevieve passed away in 2012 her home became an ‘orphan led home’ and I committed to maintain my sponsorship to care for her 5 orphans. It has been a blessing to keep in touch with them.
her children in Aug. 2017.
As of 2024, I am still sponsoring Genevieve's orphans, a girl in India. I am no longer actively selling as of 2019 when Covid shut down so many businesses. I do however continue to go on missions trips and donate to several missions organizations. When I have an opportunity to take in more inventory I plan to sell and use the money to support missions.
I am grateful for those of you who have supported me financially and prayed for me over the years. I look forward to sharing more stories and opportunties to help those in need.
