GIVE FREEDOM, GIVE PURPOSE

Words by Amy Whelchel | August 16 2022

Some things are hard to talk about, but they deserve to be heard.

In a world where ‘likes’ reign supreme, social media saturates our society and the news is overwhelmingly sad, it’s important to find a cause to stand behind. To stay grounded and remind ourselves of what really matters. Whatever that is to you, I believe that helping each other should be at the top of the list.

The world is a funny place: it is beautiful, yet tortured. Exciting, yet scary. Full of wonder, yet full of sadness. And where there is yin, there is always yang. As we learn more about this world that we live in, we open ourselves up to its light, and simultaneously, its darkness.

It’s crucial to acknowledge the dark, because ignorance does not equal bliss, however the light is where humanity shines the brightest. The light is what I want to share with you. And it often shows itself when you least expect it.

Writer Amy Whelchel

At the beginning of 2019, I was traveling for work in Arroyo Grande, California. I stumbled upon a boutique and being the girly girl that I am, I seldom miss an opportunity to shop. I love all things fashion, but jewelry is how I express myself the most. Even as a toddler, I would be adorned in my Mom’s bracelets and necklaces..I had to jazz up my diaper of course. It stuck with me because to this day, I am never without a piece. I love that it always gives back to you because no matter your height, size or mood, it will always make you feel good.

As I was in the store, I was drawn to a beautiful pair of turquoise earrings. Again, any excuse to shop, but something about these really caught my eye. The name on the earring holder read ‘PURPOSE Jewelry’ which I was immediately intrigued by, and as I turned the earrings over, I noticed a woman’s name had been handwritten on the label. I hadn’t seen this before, so upon asking, I was told of International Sanctuary - a nonprofit organization who rehabilitate women that have survived human trafficking, and PURPOSE Jewelry - the line personally handcrafted by these survivors.

PURPOSE Jewelry

I instantly felt connected to these women through the jewelry. I knew each piece had been made with the utmost love and care. These earrings were more than just a fashion statement, they were a mission. A mission I absolutely wanted to get behind.It was unlike anything I had experienced and in that moment, I was forever changed. Knowing that I wanted to go further than just this encounter, I reached out to PURPOSE Jewelry and was connected with the loveliest woman named Deanne. She told me about the brand and a fire was lit inside. International Sanctuary was founded in 2007, which means they are about to celebrate 15 years! The goal is to provide a safe community - a sanctuary - where women who have survived human trafficking can build a new life. These sanctuaries are currently in India, Uganda, Mexico and The Philippines. International Sanctuary works with in-country organizations, and once the survivors have been rescued, they enter International Sanctuary’s program where they can grow in capacity and skills. Through a safe environment there is access to four key components:

•Income - receiving regular paychecks, learning how to save and feel secure in finance, thus creating economic freedom.

•Education - regardless of age or ability, women are taught a range of subjects such as reading, computer skills, life skills, language and math. There are also opportunities for an online tutoring program wherein US based volunteers tutor and connect with the participants to build their English literacy.

•Healthcare - there is access to ongoing healthcare, as well as counseling, mental healthcare and one-on-one mentoring.

•Community - each sanctuary provides a trauma-informed community where relationships are nurtured and can safely grow. Women grow in confidence and trust, while learning the art of jewelry-making through Purpose Jewelry. They handcraft each stunning piece, building independence and achieving the model of becoming stronger, wiser women.

They are changing lives all over the world. As of right now, International Sanctuary and Purpose Jewelry have helped around 500 women, and they will help many more as they continue their incredible work.

THIS is where humanity shines. This to me, is what life is about: GIVING BACK.

Through building a relationship with Deanne at PURPOSE Jewelry, I learnt that one way to help is to host a trunk show. What is a trunk show you ask? Another term for an awesome event that you get to host in the comfort of your home, with all of your favorite people. You don’t have to tell me twice! Anyone can do this, and let me tell you, it will fill your soul! Anyone that knows me knows how much I love bringing people together, so I of course got to planning straight away.

PURPOSE Jewelry Displayed at Trunk Show

This wasn’t going to be just any jewelry party, this was one that had immense purpose - pardon the pun - and one where 100% of the proceeds go back to these incredible women. 100%! On a Sunday morning, through delicious brunch bites and delightful mimosas, my friends learnt all about the organization, and I let the jewelry speak for itself. Not only is every collection beautiful, but the mission behind it - unmatched. We laughed, we cheersed, we watched videos about the work that International Sanctuary does, we tried on gorgeous jewelry and let our inner girls run wild! They fell completely in love with the pieces, and the fact that they knew the name of the wonderful woman who had made their jewelry with so much love. They were aiding in changing lives through a purchase. Helping to give freedom. And I don’t think there is anything more profound than that. It was such a special day and I will always hold it with me. So much so that I hosted another, and I plan to do more and more. Can’t stop, won’t stop!

In my eyes, there is no superior deed than giving back, and what better way to do it than to bring your favorite people together and share in something greater than yourselves. Giving freedom to the women who deserve it most.

We have to step outside of ourselves. Look up from our phones. Realize how urgent this issue is. A person is trafficked every 30 seconds around the world. 70% are female. There are approximately 24.9 million victims at any given time. This happens in every country in the world, which means that there are more people in slavery today than at any other time in history. Let’s say it louder for the people in the back.

When you realize that the purpose for your life isn’t just about you, you will use it in a mighty way. So let’s stand together in the light. Let’s combat the dark in this world. Let’s be a part of something bigger.

Let’s give freedom. Give purpose.

To get involved or donate go to internationalsanctuary.com and purposejewelry.org

Use Code GIVEFREEDOM2022 for Free Shipping on any PURPOSE Jewelry purchases (Valid until Sep 16) !