Trade As One

A bonus to doing what we do is getting to visit places that are doing something inspiring. Heartland Community Church in Rockford, Illinois is one such place. In June, I (Rachel) had the privilege of being in Chicagoland and stopping in for a visit. Last winter, they launched an interactive ministry designed to connect people to opportunities within the church, the community and the world. Trade as One is a big connection for the Do Something Now for Our World as a very tangible way for Heartland attendees to make Fair Trade purchases right at the church. It was so fun to walk in and see our producer photos and stories attached to the oversized map!
The space itself is really compelling and invites you in with a huge map and large photos. As part of the community connection, there are opportunities to purchase birthday gifts for an under resourced child in the area, a monthly drive for items that are needed by a local pantry, and more. What a great way to rally everyone to focus on one need for something like peanut butter or juice boxes! Often, we are stymied by how to get involved or how to do good. Heartland is making it impossible to allow the overwhelming needs cause paralysis and inaction by providing clear opportunities to serve others!

Learn more about Do Something Now and see photos at: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=145409&id=278874584322