3Strands - Gifts that Give Back
"We want to be sure we are keeping up with the trends and creating a product that is versatile for multiple individuals to enjoy," said Ken Petersen, founder of 3Strands Global and the popular Apricot Lane Boutique franchise.
Los Angeles, CA (PRWEB) August 29, 2013
With the sale of every 3Strands handmade bracelet, money is raised to help empower, teach and employ young women who have been rescued from the evils of human trafficking. The 3Strands Fall 2013 Collection includes “bracelets with bling!” The eco-friendly, wax-cotton cord is now adorned with a touch of sparkle and colorful glass beads taking the brand, and the artists in Cambodia creating these bracelets, to the next level.
"We want to be sure we are keeping up with the trends and creating a product that is versatile for multiple individuals to enjoy," said Ken Petersen, founder of 3Strands Global and the popular Apricot Lane Boutique franchise.
The woven bracelets each feature a signature metal closer with the words “Freedom, Love and Empowerment” symbolizing the true gift these young women receive when bracelets are purchased. Every bracelet displays one fragile, red seed from the pods of Sandalwood trees, native to Cambodia. The beauty of this glossy, recycled, scarlet seed represents the beauty in each of the women who have been freed and empowered with hope for the future.
“Working with products that sparkle make our artists so happy” said Lyndsey Kaycelek, lead designer for the 3Strands Brand. "The sparkle of the stones seems to match the sparkle in their eyes as they create more beautiful bracelets. These young women are so incredibly grateful to have been rescued and even more thankful that they have training and sustainable jobs to go to each day! Their hearts are happy!”
The 3Strands team couldn’t be more excited about the support and interest professional athletes have shown. NFL running back Adrian Peterson, Daniel Nava of the Boston Red Sox, Patrick Peterson of the Arizona Cardinals, US Gymnast Carly Patterson and Heather Mitts of the US Women’s World Cup Soccer Team have all been seen wearing the bracelets in a show of support. 3Strands is also making a presence among other well-known celebrities as it was worn by Jada Pinkett Smith when she supported Prop 35 during the election. Bracelets are also in the hands of Ben Stiller, Jennifer Aniston, Tom Cruise, President Clinton, Will Ferrell and so many others as they were featured in the American Cinematheque celebrity gift bag.
The Agape Training Center (ATC) where these bracelets are created is a small jewelry and apparel-training center unlike any other in the world. Instead of factory life working 12-hour shifts in horrible conditions, the young women attend ATC for eight (8) hours each day during which time they receive counseling and educational services as well as lunch, medical benefits and childcare. Salaries are 3–4 times higher than the pay at typical garment factories located in Cambodia. This community, where rehabilitation meets vocation, is built upon respect and compassion for one another in a family environment.
While AIM manages the Training Center and creates the unique, handmade jewelry and apparel designs, 3Strands purchases the products from ATC to market and distribute the products across the country through retail partners like Whole Foods. In addition, bracelets are sold via e-commerce http://www.3StrandsGlobal.com. 50% of profits from all sales helps to fund Agape International Mission.
For more information visit http://www.3StrandsGlobal.com. Photos available upon request.
