My Nonprofit Reviews
sweetbourbonevents
Review for Fount of Mercy, New York, NY, USA
I have had the absolute pleasure of working with Fount of Mercy's project Director for Sewing Hope, Tara Hawks, in planning and executing the annual fashion show fundraiser in New York city. From day one, Tara and her team had a clear vision and passion for this project that was easily contagious. Seeing the need in Uganda for women to have marketable skills, Sewing Hope has found a way to turn the NY fashion industry into their source for support. It was inspiring to see some of New York's talented and acclaimed designers create and donate garments made from African fabric to raise money that will go directly back to purchase sewing machines, fabric, and support the training of women in Uganda. What's even better is that Sewing Hope is seeing these women form partnerships and support each other. They are actively encouraged to reinvest in their growing garment businesses. I am so impressed with how Sewing Hope/Fount of Mercy shows stewardship of its funds. Every decision in the planning of the event was focused on how it will best serve the women in Uganda. From the raffle, to the guest refreshments (our wine sponsor was a company owned and operated by two women out of CA), Sewing Hope has aligned itself with donors, volunteers, and vendors that support empowering women and are eager to see growth for Sewing Hope and, therefore, Fount of Mercy's global impact.
More Feedback
I've personally experienced the results of this organization in...
Showing annual growth in numbers of attendees, donors for the fashion show, and net amount earned. Also, the event went so seamlessly... truly a testament to the exemplary nature of the team at Sewing Hope. I want to bring them to every event we do!
If I had to make changes to this organization, I would...
make it bigger so it can make a larger impact on more women!
What I've enjoyed the most about my experience with this nonprofit is...
they are grateful. Everywhere you turn, your efforts are recognized. It is well managed, and from the top down they foster a culture of thankfulness.
The kinds of staff and volunteers that I met were...
one-of-a-kind awesome. I wish I could work with this exact team on every event we do!
If this organization had 10 million bucks, it could...
change the world. They really need to have the Director on salary so she can work on this full time. But of course, most of it would go to expansion of teams in multiple countries.
Ways to make it better...
We could have more awareness of the event and get more people there, but we've seen growth, so I have confidence we'll see more next year!
In my opinion, the biggest challenges facing this organization are...
limits with funds. A little more funding support would go a long way with this project.
One thing I'd also say is that...
I'll be a life long supporter :)
How frequently have you been involved with the organization?
About once a year
When was your last experience with this nonprofit?
2009
