I remember the morning I sat down with my friend Jane to catch up on life and fill each other in on all things new. She told me about her latest work on the field…which involved a trip to India to visit trafficking survivors who were getting their lives back together.  I sat there amazed. She then told me about a business idea she had about giving these women a self-sustaining platform for economic independence. And so her journey began…that was 18 months ago.

Fast forward, and today’s feature is all about the company she’s just launched, called TO THE MARKET – a social enterprise and marketplace focused on selling products made by survivors of abuse, conflict and disease. The items range from ballet slippers and quilts to jewelry scarves and clothing.

In her own words, “I felt like existing efforts to ’empower’ vulnerable populations were largely focused on providing social services—things like food, housing and pro-bono legal assistance. Social services are extraordinarily important, particularly in emergency situations, but they are rarely sustainable for the duration of a survivor’s life. The dignity of work is not only restorative to one’s spirit, but it also helps to ensure that the survivors of abuse don’t return to their exploitative relationships; that survivors of conflict can forge a new life without relying on charity; and that survivors of disease could afford the care that they need.”

Visit the site, learn about the mission and support the women behind the products. The first feature story highlights Aashiana, a New Delhi shelter which employs and trains HIV/AIDs infected women to make jewelry. It’s an amazing mission and I’m grateful it’s finally live.