Over the next few days we will share stories of how your partnership in 2018 has helped us live out the core values of
Caroline's Promise.
Caroline's Promise.
Today's value is:
"We value sustainable programs rather than handouts"
Isaiah 61:3
"to bestow on them a crown of beauty
instead of ashes,
the oil of joy
instead of mourning,
and a garment of praise"
A few years ago, after implementing two entrepreneurial business trainings in Guatemala, we learned that the major obstacle to expanding any small business within and around the city is extortion by gangs. If you pay, you’re in danger. If you don’t pay, you’re in danger. (Read Maria's story of extortion) Therefore, most of the women don’t even try to open a store front. It doesn’t stop them from dreaming though.When we learned of their dreams (and the necessity of the income it could provide) and their obstacles to actually making a small business profitable, we began to dream too. We asked God what HE wanted us to do with these dreams. That’s when FLORECER was conceived.
FLORECER is the name of our artisan group in Guatemala, currently consisting of 4-6 women. When you see a product with a Florecer tag on it, you know that the product was hand made by our artisans. Florecer is also considered a social enterprise because profits made through the sale of the products are reinvested in the ministries of Caroline’s Promise. These ministries directly impact the families of and communities in which our artisans live and work.
We understand that God has asked us to shine HIS light in the dark places that include modern day slavery, human trafficking, poverty, hunger, gangs and violence, and drugs. When we partner with our artisans to provide them with income, we are shining HIS light into their lives. We are fighting for justice in an upside down world.
We have more goals and dreams for Florecer and for CP’s Fair Trade branch. One of those goals is to purchase quality sewing machines for our artisan group. The sewing machines they are using have age and wear and are basic machines. To continue making quality products they need better machines. We have a goal of $3000 to purchase 6 machines ($500 each).
We cannot make these dreams a reality without your partnership. From monetary donations for sewing machines to product design, from social media promotion to hosting a home or office party, there is likely a way for you to partner with us.
Choose this link to donate toward our sewing machines.
To find out more about fair trade, parties, or Florecer and how you can partner with us, contact Ruth at florecercp@gmail.com