LoLA would like to spotlight a few of the artists and organizations who work hard to improve the world, help the disadvantaged or give back to their communities. What can YOU do today to help?

 

 

Whether by donating beads and supplies, purchasing bracelets or donating cash, many artists in our community have supported the Hope Bracelet Project since it's inception in 2003!

In 2004, artist Kim Miles challenged her fellow artists to join her in a committment to provide beads for the project. Each year, lampwork artists from around the world contribute hundreds of handmade glass beads to the Hope Bracelet Project. Interested beadmakers can visit The Hope Challenge and join the 2008 challenge!

Beads of Courage is a national program which gives children coping with serious illness a way to express their feelings through beads. Lampwork artists can donate handmade glass beads, which are given to children as they pass treatment milestones. Purple Hearts are awarded to children who are celebrating the completion of their treatment, while Butterfly beads are provided to professional caregivers who may give them to parents who have suffered the loss of a child.

A .pdf file is provided to assist bead artists in knowing what types of beads are needed - find out more.

Ugandan women make colorful beads from recycled paper, which are then sold through Bead for Life, an organization dedicated to "eradicating poverty one bead at a time." Visit Bead For Life to see how you can help.

Founded in 1997, The Bead Project helps women in the New York area gain financial stability by learning the art and commerce of glass beadmaking. Urban Glass administers the curriculuum, which is supported through the financial contributions of many in the glassworking community. Visit The Bead Project to make a donation today!