More Than Just A Fashion Statement

 

The concept of "wearing your cause" is not a new trend- think the pink breast cancer ribbon or donning a pair of Tom Shoes & who can forget when we were introduced to one of the most prominent socially aware campaignes- the yellow Livestrong bracelet popularized by Nike & Lance Armstrong.

Now, three new non-profits are paving the way for fashionable accessories where the cost is worth every cent.

The HelpUsAdopt.org Bracelet:

The Fact:  The average cost of adoption costs upwards of $30,000+

The Cause:  Helping families who are struggling with the costs of adoption to become parents.

The concept for the organization came to light when co-founder, Becky Fawcett was going through the adoption process herself & realized the high costs involved- in just two years HelpUsAdopt.org  has provided 22 grants,  raising a total of $153,000 bringing 24 children home to a new caring family.  At the cost of only $30- helping is attainable & with 100% of the bracelets purchase price being donated to the organization the result are clear. $6250 was the average grant this past round - which was attained by the sale of only 209 bracelets.

The fashionable piece is co-designed by two adoptive mothers Fawcett & Denis Cox, creator of her name sake jewelry collection. 

So next time you are looking for that perfect gift for everyone on your list... give something with meaning.

Buy a bracelet  $30  www.denisecoxdesigns.com
or just donate to the cause www.helpusadopt.org

The 46664 Bangle:

The Fact:  36 million people worldwide are affected with HIV/AIDS

The Cause:  Bringing awareness of HIV/AIDS to people around the world & gainfully employing victims in South Africa.

The cleverly named bangle stems from South African Ex- President & peace advocate, Nelson Mandela's prison number- 466, incarcerated in 1964.  The delicately handcrafted silver, gold and platinum bangles are a corporate social initiative that empowers previously unemployed, disadvantaged & HIV-positive people in South Africa by adding to their skills set. All proceeds go to the South African craftsmen & an initiative to bring the HIV/AIDS message to people around the world.

The 46664 Bangle can be purchased at Mont Blanc on Madison Avenue & 57th Street in New York City (with 100% of the sale going to the Mandela fund) or online @ www.bangles.46664.com

Prices range from $200 - $13,000

The Himalayan Project Bracelet:

The Fact:  There are only two schools in the Everest region that go through grade 10

The Cause: The Himalayan Project is helping to raise critical support for the expansion of one of these two schools & provide direct support to one of these two schools to provide the students with physical shelter, school supplies, clothing, texts, etc.

The school, founded by Sir Edmund Hillary is attended by hundreds of Sherpa children - some of whom trek up to three hours a day to attend classes.  The Himalayan Project has raised funds to construct an enclosure that will shelter the entire school during the many months of the year when inclement weather reigns:  monsoons in the summer and snow in the winter. 

Other major goals have been to fund a school library with Nepali, Tibetan and English books and to initiate a scholarship fund for village children whose families cannot afford the $10-$20 per month that it costs to send a child to school.  At the Chaurikharka School, students learn everything from reading, writing and arithmetic to science and geography.  The mission of the school is to nurture self-motivated students - and teachers - who yearn for knowledge and share a common desire to preserve their ancient culture.  The curriculum prepares students for the challenges of both traditional village life and the fast-changing world that surrounds Chaurikharka. For further information about The Himalayan Project please visit www.himalayanproject.org.

Designer Cristina Vitiello, designer & founder of Cristina V. created these handcrafted bracelets to support this worthy cause.

Single Strand Brass Bracelets Knotted on Different Colors of Silk are priced @ $89
Available exclusively @ Heli Sport in Huntington, NY or on-line: www.cristinav.com/giveback

Want More Socially Conscious Gear?
Try SOCIAL DESIGNER 

This site strives to spark new ideas about the issues that matter most by encouraging participants to create fun, socially-relevant graphics for tees, totes & other fashion items.  The site focuses on all types of issues including:  Animal Welfare, Peace, Education, Arts & Culture, Emergency Relief, Environment, Health & Well-Being, Human Rights & Poverty. 

Social Designer will donate from 20-50% of profits from sales to participating organizations & charities.  

With every choice we make in what we wear, what better fashion statement then calling attention to a cause worth supporting.

-Meredith Garcia