Connected In Hope
This non-profit org gives Ethiopian women a second chance at life, helping them out of harm's way and empowering them to create their own futures.
Genuine Girl Power
Connected in Hope Foundation works with dozens of women who once spent their days walking more than 10 miles a day, carrying up to 80 lbs. of wood, which they would sell for less than a dollar a day. Now, they work in humane conditions, weaving beautiful scarves, being paid fare wages, and enjoying heartfelt compliments from the people buying their wares all over the world.
Why We Love It
There's no opportunism here; Connected in Hope is non-profit, with none of its US staff taking a salary. All its profits are re-invested in programs supporting the women and their families. It also offers an on-site preschool for children of the weavers and their neighbors; a health clinic and library are the foundation's next goals.
Meet Gete,
age 65:
"For over 15 years I carried fuel wood (to sell). Carrying the heavy bundles I would encounter hyenas and was often harassed by guards. Now (through Connected in Hope), we are selling many scarves so my income is growing. This has changed my life dramatically. I have a good meal every day. I have friends who work with me. (I get) messages from the people who buy my scarves. This makes me very proud and very happy."
Take Part
Special offer for Milkshake readers!
Visit the Connected in Hope website and snap up one of its gorgeous hand-woven scarves (or baskets!) at 10 percent off just for being a Milkshake reader.
Use the code MILKSHAKE (naturally!) at checkout to enjoy a little special treatment.
