I have never done art work or crafts. I didn't inherit that talent from my Mom, my brother did. However, I was looking for a trade or craft for Haitian orphans to do and sell, bringing an income to each individual. In this particular orphanage that I work with, the orphans are given an opportunity to go to university or trade school when they finish high school. Their tuition and books will be paid for, but they will have to pay for their ... Read Full Bio »

I have never done art work or crafts. I didn't inherit that talent from my Mom, my brother did. However, I was looking for a trade or craft for Haitian orphans to do and sell, bringing an income to each individual. In this particular orphanage that I work with, the orphans are given an opportunity to go to university or trade school when they finish high school. Their tuition and books will be paid for, but they will have to pay for their living expenses. If they have a trade now, they can save money for when they go to university to help provide for their needs then, for they will not be able to return to the orphanage. That's when I started looking at making jewelry, based on all the coconut shells that have in Haiti and what they could make from coconut and wood. When I found your site, I also learned about up-cycling and beads that can be made from common trash. Haiti has a lot of trash! I ran with the idea. I took the idea to the children in May, '12 with a few supplies and will return in June to see if they have been as motivated as I left them. I truly believe this will work. Your site has been a blessing.