Spanish Honor Society is currently working with the Pulsera Project to help Central American artisans by selling handmade bracelets and bags during the school day. Senior and Vice President, Araceli Argueta explains when and where you can support the cause.
“We’ve been selling [the bracelets] during lunch,” Argueta said. “There are tables up, we have a big tri-fold and that’s where we have been promoting it.”
The tri-fold includes information about the people making the bracelets and bags. Senior president Adahy Espinoza wants people to know the story and reason behind the product they are purchasing. The support makes a significant difference to the Nicaraguan and Guatemalan artisans.
“It funds job employment for them because as they’re artisans, that’s how their income comes in,” Espinoza said.“That’s what they’re passionate about. But we also fund homeless shelters and scholarships as well.”
The fundraiser is not new to Har-Ber, it was brought back this year in order to continue a legacy of helping those in need. Espinoza worked hard to make this fundraiser happen.
“One of my friends had come across the organization but we just wanted to be able to make an impact and do something new,” Espinoza said. “We wanted to be able to start a tradition and keep that going for the next Spanish Honor Society chapters.”
Espinoza got in contact with the CEO of the Pulsera Project to start the sale. This cause is more than community service for her.
“I’ve always been really passionate about [pulsera]. I visit Mexico every year, and I know how important they are to the artisans over there. So anytime I come back, I’ll always bring bulks of bracelets for all my friends,” Espinoza said. “So, when I found out about the project, it was something that I really wanted to integrate myself and our society in. It’s like we’re bringing that trip to them.”
By bringing this cause to Har-Ber, students are reminded of how similar everyone is, despite being from different countries.
“They’re exactly like us. All of our bracelets are signed and have a picture of the person who made them. I’m always reminded of how we’re literally the same people. We’re all simply people out here trying for ourselves,” Espinoza said.
You aren’t just getting a stylish bracelet or bag when you buy the product, you’re helping others internationally.
“I want them to understand that they’re doing it for something better out there and they’re helping somebody in some sort of way,” Espinoza said. “I want them to take away that sense of hope and pride in being able to help others and being able to integrate themselves into communities internationally.”