“The Akola Project is one of five sustainable development initiatives of The UAPO (Ugandan American Partnership Organization). Since 2007, the project has empowered more than 200 women in Uganda to uplift their families and communities through income-generating crafts, such as jewelry-making, combined with village savings and loans programs. Akola Project sales provide fair wages to the women, many of whom are widows and HIV-positive, so that they can afford medical care and school fees for their children. Additional proceeds contribute to funding The UAPO’s other projects, which include drilling water wells and building vocational centers throughout Uganda.”

We are happy to financially support The Akola Project in its special mission. To learn more, visit akolaproject.org.

Wisteria Dallas recently hosted a trunk show for GAIA Empowered Women.  We had so much fun helping to support this great cause!  Founded by Paula Minnis, to help lead marginalized women to financial independence and self-sufficiency through employment, encouragement, and dedication to their long-term success in our own local communities.  Using vintage, repurposed, or sustainable materials to create bright colored, fun accessories and table linens.

If you are in Dallas, stop by our store to shop GAIA…great gifts for moms, friends, teachers and yourself!

Defenders of Freedom is a nonprofit organization supporting troops currently deployed or have been injured during battle. It formed in 2004 from a group of “Army Moms” who gathered frequently at the Dallas/Fort Worth Airport to welcome home the troops. This gathering formed what is now the Defenders of Freedom. They raise money through events such as sponsored golf tournaments and fundraisers. This helps those in uniform and their families with funds for food, gas, and bills, and provides them as much emotional support as possible. For troops overseas, they put together support boxes filled with items for the soldiers to enjoy.

We are happy to financially support Defenders of Freedom in its special mission. To learn more, visit defendersoffreedom.us.

The Hunger Project is a global nonprofit organization committed to ending world hunger by building strategic programs with local grassroots organizations in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. They believe that by developing self-reliant individuals and fostering equality in the community they can help future generations work toward a brighter existence. They have a strong focus in Africa where they work in eight countries throughout the continent. The Hunger Project has partnered with Epicenter Strategy in Africa to help women find employment and instill positive leadership skills to combat bigger issues within in the communities. See all the colorful photos we have of the women in India.

This month, we are happy to support The Hunger Project in their pursuit to end world hunger. To learn more, visit www.thp.org.

Aid to Artisans is a nonprofit organization seeking to increase the quality of life for artisans living in underdeveloped parts of the world. By helping artisans build profitable businesses, they hope to bring lasting economic growth. They believe eco-friendly production is fundamental in creating sound business practices in all they do. In their 33 years of service, Aid to Artisans has helped over 100,00 people in more than 110 countries. They accept donations and support to keep achieving their goals.

You can also see one of the artisans making our Artisan’s Handcrafted Metal Nativity (w6705) in the photo below. Proceeds from this product’s sales go directly to the organization, helping the artisans in Haiti who made them. We are happy to support Aid to Artisans in its special mission. Learn more at aidtoartisans.org.