Last week I had the honor and joy to attend an event in Washington DC that made my heart sing. It made my heart sing because not because I was getting out on the town, but because I was going to celebrate and support a cause and effort that I hold very close to my heart.
That effort is the Heart of Haiti.
I was introduced to Heart of Haiti earlier this year. It is a trade program whose mission and work touches me on every level. I bought several Heart pendant necklaces for Principessa’s teachers end of the year gifts last May.
Founded by Willa Shalit’s Fair Winds Trading, in partnership with Macy’s and in collaboration with the Clinton Bush Haiti Fund, Heart of Haiti offers opportunities for local artisans so use their craft, their art, and their skill, to help create positive change in their ravaged homeland. A homeland who experienced a 7.0 magnitude earthquake forever changing the landscape and lives of the people who lived on this Caribbean island.
Willa Shalit sharing her passion with the DC audience.
The collection brings the spirit and creativity of the artists into handcrafted vases, picture frames, sculptures, bowls, and pendants. Artisans use income from the proceed of their sales to pay for their homes, school fees, and clothing for their families. Purchasing one of these works of art gives back to the artisan to directly support their family. These one of a kind masterpieces carry on the tradition of Haitian culture and history and help restore dignity and pride in local artisans and families.
We had the opportunity to meet one of the artisans, Pascale Faublas, who shared the story of her work, the heart of her fellow artisans, and the soul of the hands that individually craft each one of the pieces.
Heart of Haiti artist, Pascale Faublas, sharing the impact that the Heart of Haiti on the lives of the artisans.
We had the opportunity to shop the collection and to taste delicious Haitian inspired foods. I may have even purchased a large quantity (as in, I could have used a basket to hold them all) of sun AND heart pendants, for more teachers and loved ones.
Thanks to @TechSavvyMama for snapping this picture as @SmilingAimee and I shopped!
The event was truly a celebration of the work and spirit of the artisans. A celebration of a trade program that I can only hope will continue to bring positive change in the lives of many Haitian families.
xo
Elena
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oh this is wonderful. i love this post. and those pendants would make really cool xmas gifts for my teen’s friends. this is a great trade program and I’m heading back to their site. Thanks for sharing mama!
Hi Ellen! It’s Kelly from Everywhere and I just wanted to thank you for such a wonderful post. having worked with Heart of Haiti these last few months has been so inspiring and I love that it connect me with people like you. Since I was not able to go to the event it’s been so great to see how much everyone enjoyed it.
Thanks Kelly! It was really a magical evening.
Ellen, Thanks for supporting Heart of Haiti and let’s put your trip to Haiti out there in the universe! (Danica from Everywhere)
Thanks Danica! I am so incredibly in awe of the work that is being done and cannot wait to see it first hand!
I am so proud of your work and support of such a worthy cause. Thank you for bringing it to our attention and into our hearts. The world really needs more people like YOU Elena!!!!!
You really made a big difference by supporting this event. I am just fond of art and I can imagine the excitement and amazement being there surrounded with amazing people and craftsmanship. Thank you for sharing.
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