Meet the Indiana Woman Empowering Honduran Artisans Through Jewelry
In 2021, Indiana native Sarah Capehart transformed her passion for jewelry and commitment to social impact into Alegria Accessories, a company dedicated to empowering young women in Honduras through meaningful employment. The name "Alegria," meaning "joy" in Spanish, reflects the company's mission to create joy through job opportunities.
From Evansville to Honduras: A Mission of Empowerment
Sarah's journey began in 1998 when her parents moved to Honduras to establish a home for orphaned and abandoned children. Inspired by their dedication, Sarah envisioned a way to support these children as they transitioned into adulthood. Combining her experience in the jewelry industry with her desire to make a difference, she founded Alegria Accessories to provide sustainable employment for young women aging out of the children's home.
Crafting Opportunities: The Alegria Team
Starting with three part-time artisans on a porch in Honduras, Alegria Accessories has grown to employ seven full-time artisans. These talented women handcraft unique, high-quality jewelry in an air-conditioned workspace, ensuring both comfort and safety. Each piece is made with hypoallergenic materials, including generously plated or filled precious metals and genuine semi-precious stones, reflecting the company's commitment to quality and ethical production.
Fair Trade Commitment and Community Impact
Alegria Accessories is proudly Fair Trade Verified, adhering to principles of fair wages, safe working conditions, and the abolition of slave and child labor. By providing stable employment, the company not only transforms the lives of its artisans but also positively impacts their families and communities. Customers, referred to as "Joy-Creators," play a vital role in this mission, as their purchases directly support these opportunities.
Supporting Women-Owned Businesses in Indiana
As an Indiana-based, women-owned business, Alegria Accessories exemplifies the power of entrepreneurship in driving social change. By partnering with stores across the United States, the company extends its reach, allowing more customers to participate in creating joy through their purchases. These collaborations amplify the impact, fostering a community dedicated to empowering women both locally and globally.
Join the Movement: Shop with Purpose
Every piece of jewelry from Alegria Accessories tells a story of resilience, craftsmanship, and hope. By choosing to shop with Alegria, customers not only adorn themselves with beautiful accessories but also contribute to a greater cause—empowering women in Honduras to build brighter futures.
Shop the collection and learn more about Alegria Accessories' mission at their official website.
For a deeper insight into the heart and mission behind Alegria Accessories, watch the following video featuring Founder and Chief Joy Officer, Sarah Capehart:
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Gallery Credit: Isabel Sepulveda