Raising Awareness

After reading, Simple Compassion by Keri Wyatt Kent, I was SHOCKED at my own ignorance of the problem of Human Trafficking. I could not believe the state of modern day slavery, especially in regards to children, AND that it was going on right here in the US.

Immediately, I attacked "google search", obsessed with learning more about this issue. I was google searching for groups to get involved with as well as more information. I desperately wanted to DO something.

After all of my research, I felt overwhelmed, sad, and heartbroken. Yet, I still wanted to do something. I wanted more people to KNOW what was going on and I wanted to help out.

Thankfully, there are a TON of groups addressing this issue and working hard to fight against human trafficking. Unfortunately for me, there were limited ways to be involved.

Somehow, somewhere along the line I came across the group, Women At Risk International. Their webpage offered a lot of different ways to get involved with their organization and I was compelled to get involved after reading their vision and mission.

This organization partners with women in foreign countries who are at risk of being trafficked or have been rescued from a slavery situation. These women are safely moved to safe houses where they are taught a trade, such as glass blowing or jewelry making. These products are then sold at a store in Michigan run by Women at Risk, The War Chest.

The products can also be sold through women hosting at home war chest parties, raising awareness of the problem of human trafficking AND raising support for the women in the safe houses by selling their products.

Immediately, I knew this was the way I wanted to be a voice in the battle against human trafficking. I decided to host a WAR chest party.

All of the proceeds from the sales at the party go directly to WAR International, and 90% of that money goes directly to support the women at the safehouses. In fact, $250 in sales supports one woman for one month in the safehouse, providing for her training, food, and housing.

I truly enjoying hosting the party! The products were unique and there was quite a variety. The attendees were appreciative of the opportunity to learn more about this issue and shop with a purpose.

Here is a friend modeling the triple strand pearl necklace as well as some pretty eyeglass holders. The triple strand of pearls are part of the Pearls of Hope line of jewelry and were very popular.

Prices ranged from $10-$100 for jewelry. This meant that everyone found something they could afford and enjoy! The magazine beads from Uganda were creative and inexpensive.

There was a beautiful variety of necklaces!

I wish I had taken picture of the AMAZINGLY beautiful hand blown glass ornaments. I sold out of them on the preview night! They were gorgeous and affordable at $15 each.

There were purses, scarves, keychains, bookmarks, and even friendship bracelets from the Threads of Hope line. The friendship bracelets were only $2, a perfect gift for a teenage or young girl.

K(age 8…my daughter) fell in love with a little doll on a keychain. I surprised her by purchasing it for her as a Christmas ornament this year. She adores the little doll and will remember to pray for girls who are less fortunate than she.

The jewelry party was a HUGE success! Over 30 women attended and ordered products. Many ordered online after the party as well.

I was so encouraged by this opportunity to raise awareness for this cause. The party was in November (late blogging) and I think it was great timing for gift shopping! I hope to do another one next year.

If you are interested in learning more about Human Trafficking, there are a ton of great resources out there. I follow the following groups on Facebook: Women at Risk International and Traffic Jam. Both groups link to articles and various events.