Kickstarter

FACT:  One of Tanzania's major industries is cotton and the production of textiles. The textiles are woven into vibrant and colorful patterns.  These textiles are called kanga cloths.

FACT:  I was once a co-owner of a business called Screaming Women.  For ten years my partner and I created artistic coats, jackets, and vests for women and sold them at art fairs and small clothing boutiques.

THE IDEA:  I met a spirited woman in Grand Rapids who told me of a school that she and her husband ran in Arusha, Tanzania.  The school has sewing machines but no one to teach them how to sew or give them additional skills so they can go out into the job market with a fresh new product as entrepreneurs.  

WHALA, I have the skills and know how to teach, but also know how to set up a sustainable business (remember Screaming Women?).  So, the women will learn to sew totes and silk screen inspirational sayings onto the totes from Africian proverbs.  This will be the beginning of a sustainabe economic project.

PROPOSAL:  I need your help to purchase silk screening equipment that will be shipped there as well as funds to buy the products from local merchants in Tanzania to use the equipment.  I plan to spend a couple months this summer working with these ladies to get this project running and then leave the equipment for them to use to provide themselves an income for their family.

WHAT I NEED TO DO?  I need to raise $2,500 in order to buy, ship and pay expenses for silk screen equipment.

TIMELINE FOR RAISING THE MONEY?  30 days... No big deal! I know I can do it with your help.

WHAT HAPPENS IF I DON'T MEET MY GOAL OF $2,500?  You don't pay.  But the silk screen project won't get funded and I won't be able to start this sustainable business.

WHAT IF I MEET MY GOAL?  I immediately purchase equipment and supplies; ship them to Arusha, Tanzania and the women will learn to silk screen starting in May.

WHY SHOULD YOU HELP?  By helping purchase equipment and supplies these women will be able to learn to silk screen and create their own beautiful katanga cloth for totes, placemate, napkins and table runners.  They will sell their goods both in Tanzania and here in Grand Rapids.

IS MY DONATION TAX DEDUCTIBLE? Absolutley T.O.U.C.H. Families is a 501c 3 non-profit organization.

Thank you and I look forward to hearing from you.  Margie