I love reading — the power of a story, the beauty of a well-written phrase, and even the act of mentally translating symbols into sounds that my mouth makes. Amazing! And unbelievable how privileged I am, how much of a minority I am (especially as a woman) to be able to read. Literacy is still a huge need around the world, and Threads of Hope is proud to be part of a group that is working to equip people with the ability to read.

The article is fantastic for many reasons and you should really go read it right now, but really it addresses why I chose World Vision as one of the charities that Threads of Hope supports. Here’s a quick excerpt:

A pop quiz: What’s the largest U.S.-based international relief and development organization?

It’s not Save the Children, and it’s not CARE — both terrific secular organizations. Rather, it’s World Vision, a Seattle-based Christian organization (with strong evangelical roots) whose budget has roughly tripled over the last decade.

World Vision now has 40,000 staff members in nearly 100 countries. That’s more staff members than CARE, Save the Children and the worldwide operations of the United States Agency for International Development — combined.

…The head of World Vision in the United States, Richard Stearns, begins his fascinating book, The Hole in Our Gospel, with an account of a visit a decade ago to Uganda, where he met a 13-year-old AIDS orphan who was raising his younger brothers by himself.

“What sickened me most was this question: where was the Church?” he writes. “Where were the followers of Jesus Christ in the midst of perhaps the greatest humanitarian crisis of our time? Surely the Church should have been caring for these ‘orphans and widows in their distress.’ (James 1:27). Shouldn’t the pulpits across America have flamed with exhortations to rush to the front lines of compassion? How have we missed it so tragically, when even rock stars and Hollywood actors seem to understand?”

Another book to read is the one referenced here called The Hole in Our Gospel, a compelling call to action and convicting read. I’m happy to support this organization and hope you will consider sponsoring a child with them too!

Zach is part of an exploding movement of “social entrepreneurs” who offer new approaches to supporting women in developing world… social entrepreneurs create their own context by starting a new organization, company, or movement to address a social problem in a creative way.

By using quilting and sewing, I want to support others in the world, often women and children, through literacy, education, justice, clean water, and spiritual nourishment. I love that this is a growing movement and hope many more people will find their own creative ways to support what they are passionate about.

I’m excited to introduce new Stay Put Headbands! These great headbands are made of ribbon — bright colored ribbon on the outside to show off to the world and a velvet ribbon against your hair. This little trick keeps them from slipping off your head. Perfect for athletes, runners, yoga classes, or just to wear out every day!

Here are pictures of a few of colors and how they’re worn. More ribbon colors are visible on the Soft Goods page. You can always ask for certain colors and I can make what you need. These are great for friends, sports teams, or for everyday wear.

Visit the etsy shop to purchase or email threadsofhopedesigns at gmail dot com!