I had my first fundraiser this weekend! My mom and I drove to Crawford County, Illinois and participated in a craft show. We weren't sure how many people would show up and if it'd be worth the drive, but God provided and we raised more than we expected! Here are some pictures of our table and the items we sold.
We sold Bracelets from Threads of Hope! This ministry is super cool… 50% of the proceeds go back to the ministry and the remaining money goes towards my fundraiser. The colors are so vibrant and caught the eyes of every person that walked by. If you are raising funds for anything I would highly suggest this ministry.
We also sold TAPP Beads. My mom and I both have a special attachment to this section and the women that worked so hard to make them. In 2009, we both travelled to Uganda, Africa with an amazing team from our Church. This was my first international mission trip. The people of Uganda stole my heart. Obviously my mother's as well because just last week she returned from her third trip to Uganda. TAPP stands for Tumaini (Hope in Swahili) Aids Prevention Program. The women in this ministry make jewelry like this and various other things to support themselves and their families, which are affected by Aids or HIV. I had the amazing opportunity to meet some of the women that are a part of the TAPP Ministry and to hear their stories. The beads are made a little strips of paper. They are beautiful… and so are the women that made them.
Both of my parents are tremendously talented and were wonderful to allow me to sell some items that they worked hard to create. First, my dad is an artist. We sold prints of his amazing artwork. Secondly, my mom made purses, pillow cases, pillows, burp rags, baby washclothes, and a baby quilt to sell. Thanks to both of you!
All around, the fundraiser was a success. We raised a good amount of money.. but I also had the opportunity to talk to a bunch of people about what my squad and I will be doing for the next year and why I felt lead to be a part of it all! We hope to do this as often as possible! It was a long day, but a fruitful one.
