Crafting for a Cause – Bizarre Bazaar

On November 16, Partners by Design had the privilege once again to participate and support the charity work of COME UNITY, a nonprofit organization working for almost a decade to provide clean water and educational resources to East African communities in need. Bringing together a community of crafting enthusiasts, the Bizarre Bazaar, sponsored by the Illinois Chapter of IIDA, provides a place where local artisans and industry professionals can display and sell handmade goods, as well as share their passion to promote community development at a global level.

After weeks of preparations and anticipation, Partners by Design volunteers gathered at the Merchandise Mart ready to exhibit their homemade candles, painted canvases, crafted jewelry, pottery and personalized greeting cards in an effort to support COME UNITY and its mission. The event helped raise $1,109, about $300 more than last year’s event!

This year’s contribution will have a big impact in helping communities in either Kenya or Ethiopia. With the amount raised, COME UNITY can support the education of two children, fund geological research and resources for a new clean water project, or purchase a dairy cow for COME UNITY’s dairy cow program that will bring nutrition, food security and sustainable income in Pokot, Kenya.

To continue to raise awareness COME UNITY will be hosting an online viewing of their film “A Decade of Impact” on Tuesday, Nov. 28 at 7pm. Learn more HERE.

COME UNITY first came to the forefront at Partners by Design after a lunch and learn presentation from architect Kaitlyn Korber, who serves as a volunteer and member of its board of directors. We are very grateful to have been introduced to this project and are very much looking forward in participating in next year’s event. We would like to thank COME UNITY for allowing us to take part in their effort to better the lives of those in need.