Like many others, Theresa Wilson’s metamorphosis into social entrepreneurship happened by chance. After her life took a devastating turn, Wilson was humbled and awed by the many acts of kindness bestowed upon her by friends and strangers alike.
Wilson kept every note, every card of encouragement, many pictures and other blessing reminders in a basket she grew to call the “blessing basket.” She used her blessing basket as a prop when she began speaking at women’s organizations to inspire others to overcome their difficulties. Inspired by her words and perseverance, many women began requesting baskets of their own and thus “The Blessing Basket” project was now born.
How does it work?
The Blessing Basket connects weavers in under-developed countries to markets in developed countries. Today, their baskets can be found in Whole Foods Markets and numerous independent retailers across the United States. By paying so-called “prosperity wages” the company continues to improve the lives of approximately 3,000 men, women and children living in several African nations as well as Indonesia.
The Blessing Basket operates with volunteers, a small staff and a host of advisors.
Find out more: The Blessing Basket