Women HEAR for Women There: Pins, Friends, and Service

When I first found out that I was going to be a Rotary Ambassadorial Scholar to Ghana, I connected with the local Grandville Rotarians on what we are currently doing in Ghana. I was extremely excited to meet with Renee, who is one of the founders of the non-profit, Women HEAR for Women There. The cause is absolutely fantastic, the group buys Batik fabric handmade in Ghana by former Trokosi slaves, and then we handcraft pins, greeting cards, and jewelry out of the fabric, giving the proceeds back to the women in Ghana. Here is the mission statement for Women HEAR for Women There:

“If you have wanted to make a difference in the lives of women at risk, but didn’t know how to go about it, Women Hear For Women There is for you!  We gather to make cards in various settings.  These cards are sold to raise money for a vocational center in Ghana, Africa to help women who have been released from sexual servitude.

These women are former Trokosi slaves. For hundreds of years in the Volta region of Ghana, the Trokosi pratcice has been enslaving young virgin girls in ritualistic sexual bondage.  These innocent virgins, some as young as five years old, are given by their parents under the fear of the death curses of the Fetish Priest to serve a life of slavery as payment for the crimes and offenses of others. Currently, 3,500 women and their 14,000 children have been freed. We are working hard to raise money so that freed Trokosi slaves are receiving counseling, vocational training, and schooling for their children. Hearts are being transformed and women and children are set free to live lives of dignity and purpose.”

Women HEAR for Women There is a great organization that is made up of strong and resourceful women, connected by this cause, and by the understanding that no women or children should have to suffer from being forced into sexual servitude. It is a prime example of Rotary’s ideal: “Service Above Self.” I am honored to be a part of this club. Also, the pins and cards are adorable and make fantastic gifts (I know I am buying at least 5 to give to friends and family before I leave for Ghana).

Here are the pins!

If you are interested in purchasing cards/pins, would like further information, or would like to get involved please visit their website: http://womenhearforwomenthere.shutterfly.com/ or Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/womenhearforwomenthere

Here are some of the volunteers from the Pin Club!

That’s all for now!

-Jessica