Several years ago, I was reading Relevant Magazine when I stumbled across an ad for an organization called Light Gives Heat. They sold necklaces made by women in Uganda to provide sustainable employment for these women and a consistent income for their families. Although the $20 for the necklace was a bit steep for my standards back then, I forked it over, got my Classic necklace, and a love affair with Africa and Light Gives Heat was born.
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| The necklace that started it all, for Light Gives Heat and for me. |
Over the years I've spent more money than I'm willing to admit on the various, beautiful necklaces, bracelets, and bags that this amazing company sells. It made me happy to know that not only was I getting fashion accessories that made people take notice (every time I wear a necklace of theirs I get comments), but I'm also helping out people on the other side of the world. Fashion and hope together. It's a pretty awesome thing.
It didn't hurt that it turned out that the company was based in Colorado and I knew a couple of the people who worked with them. That was a bonus, for sure, but not something I knew when I initially discovered them.
Anyways, they have made a documentary, called Moving On, which details the story of the company and the family who started it. It is a beautiful story and a beautiful film. The music on it is amazing as well.
I just wanted to encourage you all to consider Light Gives Heat when making gift purchases this holiday season. No one would complain when they get an awesome wrapped paper bead necklace in their stocking. And among the holiday glitz and commercialism, we can do something that will make a big difference. That is a beautiful thing.
Their Late Fall Looks video. It makes me want to go to there.
So check them out! www.lightgivesheat.org
