Volunteer Teaching for Young Women in L.A.

On March 1st I had the good fortune of meeting an amazing woman at a charity event in Palm Springs, Ca. Her name is Tabbatha Mays and she is the founder of an equally amazing organization in Los Angeles called Spirit's Landing. Over the course of 3 days I got to know Tabbatha and learn about her organization which "Nurtures the growth and development of women ages 10-35 by providing the tools needed for them to discover their greatness, transcend obstacles and become well rounded leaders who will contribute exceptionally to our world’s social, economic and spiritual reality." I couldn't have put that any better so with her permission I have directly quoted it from her website.

Since the economy took a plunge it was all I could do to keep my business afloat so the idea of focusing on any kind of volunteerism went out the window. But attending the fundraiser in Palm Springs really renewed my passion and desire to "do good". I had taught metalsmithing classes for 5 years at Portland Pottery and Metalsmithing in Portland, Maine, and LOVED every minute of it so it made sense to combine my love of teaching with my desire to give back. After speaking with Tabbatha on the phone and via email we developed a plan. I will head to Los Angeles (driving from Tucson, Az.) in late April, car loaded with tools and supplies (all of which I will donate to Spirit's Landing so they may continue to practice what they learn). I will be teaching two different classes: The first will teach young ladies the concept of designing jewelry, basic bead stringing and finishing as well as how to make a pair of earrings. Each young lady will leave the class with their own handmade necklace and pair of earrings and possibly a bracelet if there's time. The second class will consist of me sharing my knowledge about how I started my own business, how to plan effectively and be successful in one's career. Tabbatha's motto is "Dream, Plan, Prepare, Pursue, Persist, Win". I plan on using these words as a guideline when talking about my business and how I attained my career goals over the course of ten years. 

Please join me on this wonderful journey! Your donation will help with all aspects and costs associated with this trip including tools for a class of 10+ young ladies, extensive beading supplies, gas, and lodging at a reasonably priced hotel. I will update all my followers on facebook with photos and blogs about my trip and teaching experience. This is not a "for profit" fundraiser. I'm only seeking to cover my expenses associated with this trip as well as be able to furnish ample amounts of tools and beading supplies for the organization. 

NO AMOUNT IS TOO LITTLE OR TOO MUCH!                                                                           

 I would love to surpass my fundraising goal. The more money that is raised, the more supplies I will be able to donate to Spirit's Landing. These young ladies may then choose to sell the jewelry they make to raise more money for the foundation. Please visit Spirit's Landing's website and read about Tabbatha's mission. I think you'll find it very inspirational. 

"LIKE" my fan page on facebook to follow me on my journey to L.A. and my volunteer efforts! PLEASE feel free to contact me at any time with questions. Many of you who are reading this many not know me personally and I want you to feel comfortable that this isn't a scam but an honest request for funding so I can volunteer my time and supplies to an incredibly worthwhile cause. 

SPREAD THE WORD! Don't have much money to help out? You can still help by sharing this with your friends on facebook/Twitter and asking them to donate and to share with their friends, and so on. Every single dollar helps!