Anybody who sees a beautiful, handcrafted piece gets a sense of joy, because somewhere in it lies the essence of its creator, the artisan. In 2003 Living Dreams Foundation was born, dedicated to the cause of artisans in developing countries whose skills and effort most often get forgotten. With the vision of creating business leaders out of producers, Living Dreams focuses primarily on women, trying to empower them economically and socially, ultimately alleviating them out of poverty and teaching them the skills to become leaders in their own communities. Starting out as a workshop for 25 women from a slum near Delhi, India, Living Dreams began the journey to mentor each member, taking her dreams and turning it into reality. This was done through special training that ranged from fine tuning handiwork to teaching basic business management, to life skills counseling and coaching in home economics. In addition, Living Dreams sent at least one child from each family to school and ensured that all children were getting basic care and adequate nutrition at home. Today Living Dreams has transformed many of our women dreamers to leaders and given them the confidence and knowledge to make a difference, not just in their own lives but also within their communities.
Shafia is such an example. Illiterate and living below the poverty line, Shafia joined the workshop five years ago with the dream of being able to own her own house for herself and her family. Through dedication and an unparalleled willpower, she made it happen and today lives in her own two-room home, which she is immensely proud of. She is also the senior supervisor of the Living Dreams production team.
Living Dreams Foundation incorporates many more aspects that affect the well-being of the artisans. “De-Plasticize!” is the newest campaign taken on to stop the use of plastic bags, one of the harmful results of which is witnessed by the women everyday as hundreds of cows die by swallowing plastic bags mistakenly. Donations may be submitted to Living Dreams Foundation, 123 Oak lawn Avenue, Dallas, Texas 75207. Please specify program: Environment/ Skills development/ Children/ Community development. 100% of your donation will go towards the program specified. A 501(c ) (3) organization.
For more information about the the Living Dreams Foundation, visit their website: www.livingdreamsfoundation.org