Here's a little bit about the Papoose beads, how they came about, and the cause behind the design and fundraising.

Ever since I heard about the genocide and other horrors happening in Africa I've been trying to wrap my mind around what it must be like to live there. Especially painful is the thought of the mothers and their children, babies they love just as much as we love our children, and can do virtually nothing to protect them.
I wanted to do something, anything, to help bring this situation to people's attention, and hopefully to help come up with an idea for raising some funds for these children and mothers as well.

Since I'm a beadmaker and have had some great success in raising money for other charitable causes through my work, I felt the need to put my hands and heart to work for this cause.

As I was thinking about what to make that would be a worthy symbol, I was at the torch, and suddenly the glass seemed to take over. The round spacer I was working on took shape and the word "Papoose" came into my mind almost like someone was standing at my shoulder whispering it in my ear. I knew that was it! Ever since that happened I've been working on variations of Papoose beads, trying to keep the spiritual feeling, something that would be easy to wear and would represent the concept with spirituality, and dignity.

I firmly believe that we all have a responsibility for the children of the world and this is just my way of doing what I can to fulfill mine.

I hope the Papoose beads will become a viable means of raising money and awareness for children in need, wherever they may be. .