Same Sky: Gift Ideas
Posted on November 21, 2013 by A&U in Noteworthy
A&U’s 12th Annual Holiday Gift Guide
Essentials for Living
A cuddly teddy bear, stunning jewelry, a box of bonbons, a chic wrap, a cutie-pie coffee mug—you don’t need any of these. They are not exactly essentials for living. But, really, they are—each one of the items featured in our twelfth-annual holiday gift guide helps individuals living with HIV/AIDS to enjoy a nutritious meal on a daily basis, or access to direct services, or a chance to establish a livelihood, or the feeling of being loved. Check out these chances to strengthen the HIV/AIDS community.
Same Sky
Empowerment is essential! As a trade-not-aid initiative, Same Sky provides opportunities to women working to climb out of poverty, establish a sustainable and self-sufficient livelihood, and build a foundation to make a better life for themselves, their families, and their communities. Its motto is: “We employ. You empower.” Become a part of the powerful circle connecting women everywhere by purchasing these and other pieces, beautifully crafted by women living with HIV/AIDS. Entrepreneurial income translates into medications, health insurance, paid-up school expenses, houses bought, access to water and electricity, and much more, but it also means improved health, respect, and a sense of accomplishment and security. The workplace cooperatives also serve as a safe haven for women, as well as a forum to discuss social issues such as poverty, family planning, and violence against women.
The following pieces were all handcrafted by some of the eighty-five women artisans in Kigali, Rwanda, many of whom were deeply impacted by years of war, genocide, and sexual violence. The artisans are currently employed by Same Sky, but are also encouraged to sell their jewelry in local marketplaces. 
Sky Bracelet: Each bracelet (like the one pictured above) comes signed by the woman who made the individual piece. Bracelets are crocheted with Same Sky’s signature handblown glass beads (165–180 in count) on a non-stretch cord. Sizes include: small (6–6.5 inches); medium (6.5–7 inches); and large (7–8 inches). Over time, the bracelets will stretch slightly to fit the size of your wrist.
Sky Necklace: Necklaces, like the one pictured below, are crocheted with Same Sky’s signature handblown glass beads on a non-stretch cord, adorned with smaller seed beads at the neck. Standard necklaces sit comfortably around the neck at 17.5 inches. However, specific lengths and/or colors can be special ordered upon request.
Prosperity Bracelet: Intricately crocheted and made of delicate seed beads on a semi-stretch cord, the bracelets are approximately 1/2 inch thick and 8 inches in diameter, best fitting wrist sizes 6.5 to 8.5 inches in diameter—sold as one size fits all. They roll over the hand for easy wear and comfort.
Faith Earrings: These post earrings, pictured in the center, are crocheted with fine glass beads. Faith earrings measure 3/4 by 3/4 inches; the post is located in the center of the earring.
Tell Me More: Same Sky artisans offer a wide selection of jewelry, including a bridal collection. Also, check out the cuff links and a fabric wrap for men.
Same Sky jewelry has found fans in Queen Latifah [A&U, February 2007], Halle Berry, Jessica Alba, Judith Light [A&U, July 2007], Barbara Walters, Fran Drescher [A&U, October 2003], Rev. Jesse Jackson [A&U, November 2000], and Ben Affleck, among others. The Miss Universe Organization supports Same Sky by helping to promote its work and a shared message of women empowerment and HIV/AIDS awareness and education around the world. Who Benefits: Trained as artisans, Same Sky women earn fifteen to twenty times the average wage in sub-Saharan Africa. One-hundred percent of net proceeds are reinvested to train and employ more artisans in need.
How Much: Sky Bracelets: starting at $160; Sky Necklaces: starting at $350; Prosperity Bracelets: starting at $65; Faith Earrings: $49.99.
How to Order: Log on to: www.samesky.com. Same Sky items are also available through many on-line boutiques and retailers and trunk shows around the U.S.; check the Web site for more information.
