How does it feel to give away money? Pretty good actually!
Here at O Gosh Shop, we are pleased to report that we have given our first substantial cash donation to Women Illawarra in Wollongong. This is money we've raised in our online shop through sales of beautiful Australian-made accessories, organic pampering products and handmade homewares, all made by designers and artisans in Australia.
The gift of money
Our aim, as a purpose-driven business, is to give away money that helps the community thrive. We know from our time doing volunteer work that many small community or cultural organisations are held back by a lack of funds. And we also know that small contributions can make a big difference, so we're using commerce to make the world a better place. You could say we sell gifts that keep on giving.
We decided to give this first donation to Women Illawarra because they have a creative approach to helping women and families; they recognise that people need more than food and shelter and they place an emphasis on bringing people in the community together for the benefit of each other.
Since its inception in 1979, Women Illawarra has been instrumental in the foundation of many women's services in the NSW coastal region between the mountains and the sea, immediately south of Sydney. Operating as a not-for-profit charity, the organisation works to empower women and children by providing support, community programs, and a range of services.
Those community programs include free creative classes in craft, language, and gardening. O Gosh is pleased to be able to fund additional art and craft activities, which is a wonderful way to bring women together through creativity, conversation and community.
In accepting the donation, Women Illawarra General Manager, Michelle Glasgow, said "We work to empower women and children, striving to create a world where they feel safe, valued, respected and have a sense of belonging. We do this through providing opportunities to participate more fully in the community, reducing social isolation, discrimination and disconnection, whilst facilitating knowledge, skills and personal growth and development."
This is completely aligned with our intention to foster a thriving, sustainable community. Michelle continued, "Money donated to us by O Gosh, will go directly to providing additional arts and crafts groups, free of charge, to women in our community who otherwise would not have access to these activities. Creativity and connection are crucial to a sense of wellbeing, and we are so happy to have your support."
What a perfect match is that! Our donation will give many women the opportunity to learn new art or craft skills in a supportive social environment, so that they can better participate in society. And who knows, some may take it further, learn more, and go on to make beautiful Australian objects that can be stocked at O Gosh.
More about us
O Gosh sells beautiful products from Australian makers, designers, and artists committed to local production, a sustainable future, and ethical business practices. We have Australian made gifts for her, gifts for him, gifts for them, and for you. Gifts for all occasions!
People who make buying choices every day want to support local producers and sustainable, ethtical businesses. We're delighted that many have decided to spend with O Gosh when looking for a product or special gift for family members and friends.
Our donation to Women Illawarra was $1000 which came from 5% of sales revenue, additional donations from generous customers, and a little extra from O Gosh to make it a round number.
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Read more about the great work being done by Women Illawarra, a community organisation run by women, for women
Come browsing on our site today and, while you're there, sign up for our Newsletter to hear more good news.
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Image at the top of the page shows Bush scented beeswax tealight candles
