On Friday, we introduced our Gifts that Give Back Guide. Today, we want to give you a closer look at some of our featured products. It’s our prayer that as you learn the stories behind the company and the products, you will be moved to support their cause. Not only do these products make stellar Christmas gifts, but they support working women around the globe, helping them invest in their communities. It’s a gift that you can feel good about and be proud to give. Maybe you’ll even find something for yourself! Enjoy!

—–

Sseko Designs

About: We introduced you to Liz Bohannon, founder of Sseko, in November. We love the entrepreneurial spirit behind Sseko, and the fact that every item you purchase helps send Ugandan women to the university.

Testimony: “Women here can be hopeless. We despise ourselves because we start to believe that we can’t contribute. When a woman is employed, she contributes to her family, to her society and she begins to love herself.”  – Rose, 2012 Sseko Graduate

What we Love: Not only does Sseko make adorable sandals, you will love their roomy leather bags and gorgeous scarves!

Mentor Match Program

About: For women following God’s calling to a professional career, finding mentors who share their faith and gender can be “mission impossible.”

Testimony: Having been in mentoring relationships for a long time, Tanya continues to be surprised at how she always gets back more than she imagined. She sees how when God’s blessing is on the matches, the team can talk openly and comfortably about their faith. “Allison is amazing,” she says “and we are not done yet! I feel like she is my daughter. I can say nothing but great things about the program!”

What we love: This simple, 10 week program is a great way to invest in both your character and career! The stories and results from the program encourage us to keep investing in professional Christian women across the country.

#LiveFully

About: The idea for #LiveFully came to Brian while waiting for workers to load a new mattress into his truck. In his own words: “I don’t often hear God speak so directly, but right outside the furniture store, there was a moment of profound clarity. Leading up to this, the content of the book had been birthed out of working as a pastor and helping people understand how their faith connects with every area of life, as well as how they can step into their God-given calling with deeper clarity and confidence.”

Testimony: “As a writer, there’s nothing more satisfying than hearing how your words have led to real-life change in others. One reader recently shared that the book helped her realize ‘it’s never too late to be what God always wanted you to be.’ This is the kind of impact I long for readers to experience, and it’s my prayer for all those who pick it up.” – Author Brian Burchik

What we love: Brian shares humorous stories and examples with applicable theology, making this book not only an enjoyable read, but a guide of practical application to living the life Jesus calls us to.

Rahab’s Rope

About: Rahab’s Rope exists to give hope and opportunity to the women and girls of India who have been sold into the commercial sex trade. They create a safe and loving environment, enabling the women to grow physically, emotionally, and spiritually, while receiving basic education and vocational training.

Testimony: “No one has ever cared for me and loved me the way that the people of Rahab’s Rope does, not even my own parents,” Susan said. Because of the love of God that had been extended to her, she believes there is one true God, and that one true God is Jesus.

What we Love: The online store is filled with a spectacular selection of handmade gifts from rescued women. We love the variety and unique gifts you will find, such as journals, picture frame, apparel, and home decor.

Karama

About: Karama’s mission is to increase dignity, alleviate poverty and impact the lives of African artisans through fair trade.

Testimony: “My time at Mabinti’s training school has been a time of hope and renewal for me.  I find joy in the community of other women here and the relationships we have built; I laugh with them every day.  I am so thankful for the skills I am learning here, which will enable me to find employment when I am finished.  I have new hope and vision for my future and now look ahead with great anticipation.” – Helena, Mabinti student

What we love: With a wide variety of items to choose from in nine categories, we especially love the natural, handmade soaps, body butter, and lip balm! You are sure to find something for everyone on your list.

Akola Project

About: The Akola Project has brought new hope to 1400 women throughout Uganda. We love that Akola invests in the communities of these women by drilling clean water wells, building vocational schools, and completing a 3-story orphanage.

Testimony: “Before the Akola Project I had never even thought of my children going to school, and now they are,” says Scovia. Scovia uses the income that she earns from the Akola Project to pay for her children’s school fees, medical care, and to invest in her business. She is learning to build her savings, and also hopes to learn English language, family health, and water sanitation from The Akola Project.

What we love: The wide assortment of handmade, quality jewelry makes it difficult to pick just one! From the paper bead necklaces, to the hand cast metal beads and the woven clutches, we dare you to choose just one item!

No Double Yellow Line

About: Husband and wife duo Billy and Cindy Foote have been recording worship CD’s and leading worship around the world for nearly a decade. Billy has penned songs such as “You are My King (Amazing Love),” “Sing to the King,” and “You are God Alone.” Their three daughters have been adopted from China, Ethiopia, and Haiti.

Testimony: “No Double Yellow Line is my dream come true. While its my debut as a songwriter, it is more importantly an expression of my heart for adoption. It’s my prayer that each song be a small window into our life as an adoptive family. A window that allows the listener to feel both the joy of adoption and the need for adoption/orphan care.” – Cindy Foote

What we love: Cindy’s beautiful voice and lyrics bring awareness and life to the emotions behind adoption – both the challenges and the joys.

—–

Would you like to see even more gifts that give back? Check out our complete guide here! Still not sure what to give? Consider giving a gift to 4word in honor of a loved one.