Hope by design

Buying a product can sometimes seem like a self-indulgent process: you purchase it, take it home and that is that. Your wardrobe may become a little more expansive or your living room a little more decorated, but that is about all that will change. Today, however, with increased opportunities and abilities for global collaboration, markets are being created based on the inspiring idea that purchases have the potential to do more than just become something to own. Products now have the capacity to actually do good.

One organization that has developed this concept into a reality, and has already had far-reaching effects in doing so, is Arzu, Inc. Arzu, whose motto reads, "Hope by Design", is a not-for-profit that helps women in Afghanistan develop a sustainable income through the sourcing and selling of the beautiful, hand-made rugs that the women weave.

The social impact of your purchase does not stop when the rug enters your home. The money from rug sales not only helps employ these women (the women are paid above market compensation for each rug), but also goes toward developing the education, healthcare, and community-building initiatives that Arzu is continuously building.

It's time we all enter the world of global social consciousness and use our purchasing power for the betterment of those in need.

Lay your own foundation of hope. Check out the Arzu rug collection or learn more about the situation of women in Afghanistan and how Arzu is addressing their needs at: www.arzurugs.org