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.

Dwell with Dignity is a nonprofit devoted to assisting families struggling with poverty and homelessness by improving the conditions of their living situations. Made up of interior designers and volunteers, they believe people are affected by their surroundings and that living in a nurturing environment supported by good art and design makes a positive impact carried down to future generations. They create soothing, inspiring homes with quality furnishings, art, bedding, and kitchen supplies, and fill their pantries with food.

With the generosity of donors and help from dedicated volunteers, they are able to bring good design to those in need, and teach others creative and affordable ways to bring good design into their homes.

www.dwellwithdignity.org

Fragile X Syndrome is a serious mental impairment, causing severe cognitive or intellectual disabilities resulting from a single gene mutation. It is the most commonly inherited form of mental impairment, affecting one in every 4,000 men and one in every 6,000 women. Currently, there is no cure.

The goals of Families for Fragile X are to promote public awareness, provide family support for those afflicted by Fragile X, and to help fund scientific research leading to better treatments and finding a cure for Fragile X Syndrome. A portion of the proceeds goes to the University of California/Davis MIND Institute, one of the leading Fragile X clinical and research facilities, and the South Florida Fragile X Clinic, aimed at assisting those affected by this disease.