![Focused, junior Kari Arder works to prepare the fabric for stitching. "[Fashion Design] is one of my classes that I get to be the most creative in, which is nice," Arder said. Arder plans on pursuing a career in the fashion industry. "Maybe the business side of fashion," Arder said. "Probably not design though."](https://wildcatswired.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/KTHORNTON_FASHION_9.25.2403-1200x800.jpg)
The National Spanish Honor Society hosts the Pulsera Project, providing jobs and resources for communities in Nicaragua and Guatemala. Bracelets (pulseras) and purses (bolsitas) are for sale in the mornings and during all lunches until Monday, Feb. 12.
Pulseras sell for $5, and bolsitas for $15. The booth only accepts cash.Not only are these handmade accessories beautiful, but they support a good cause.
“The Pulsera Project is a non-profit organization that educates, empowers, and connects the community,” chapter sponsor Gaby Mora said. “This is an organization that helps communities in Nicaragua and Guatemala, and all the sales are going directly back to those communities.”
The process of the project employs over 200 artisans through Fair Trade Jobs that have ideal working conditions, as all bracelets are handmade on the employee’s own time.
“It’s very important just to help these artisans and make a difference in their lives,” Mora said. “This project allows workers to have better opportunities that address their specific needs.”
Receiving six million dollars since 2009, the Pulsera Project provides funding for housing programs, education, medical aid, legal services, and workers’ rights initiatives.
“Each pulsera takes about an hour to make and comes with a tag with a picture and signature of the person who made them,” Mora said. “When students from our community are wearing their pulseras, we are connected with Central American communities. It’s very personal.”
This connection encourages students and staff to serve and spread awareness for ways to aid communities in need.
“When you wear a pulsera,” Mora said, “You not only share the voice of a Central American artist, but you also raise your own voice, speaking out for opportunity, unity, and a more equal and colorful world for everyone.”
Mora wanted to bring the Pulsera Project because she knew it would be an influential form of service for society members as well as all of Walnut Grove.
“My purpose is to make them feel proud and connected with the Hispanic communities,” Mora said. “Even in the future, this is something that can speak to their hearts.”
The Wildcats Wired Staff encourages students to take part in this incredible charity, as the impact made from exchanging a five-dollar bill has limitless benefits for members of various communities.
