At Sojourn Studio, we believe that every purchase carries the power to create change. Our mission is not just about beautiful, handcrafted jewelry; it’s about creating dignified jobs for women, strengthening families, and building pathways out of poverty. That mission aligns with several of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which guide global efforts toward a more just and sustainable world.
Read MoreScaling GCA’s work is critical not just to meet growing needs but also to address the root causes of child abuse, trafficking, and exploitation. Read why scaling GCA is so important for the vulnerable populations we engage.
Read MoreThe Philippines has robust foster care protocols, eight official licensing agencies, and they have formalized a National Authority on Alternative Child Care. There are also several family strengthening organizations who are supported by foundations in-country and abroad. However, the primary obstacle that has remained a consistent hindrance has been the recruitment and preparation of safe foster families.
Read MoreTwo years ago, GCA was asked by Austin Ridge Bible Church to consult on their partnership with IJM in the Philippines. IJM’s aftercare partners were running out of beds for child survivors of Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation (OSAEC). When the request was made to build more shelters to care for children, ARBC asked us for help.
Read MoreLast year GCA determined that the best way to protect children in the most vulnerable communities along the border of Thailand, was to buy land and build a new center. We shared this need and generous supporters showed up in a huge way to fund this venture. Thank you to each of you who responded in such an incredible way!
Read MoreThailand is a beautiful country and I am so thankful I had the opportunity to travel there in the Summer of 2022 with GCA. I came home with such wonderful memories and hopes of returning with my family soon.
Read MoreIt’s a couple months ago that we get an email update from one of our team leaders. He had just finished interviewing one of the girls in a small children’s home we are supporting. They are beginning the arduous process of tracing each child’s family to see if it might be safe for them to return home.
Read MoreIt’s an odd way to start the year, I suppose. But as we look ahead to this year, it’s true. Of all the things we are planning, all the projects and programs we’ll work diligently to implement with excellence, all the families we hope to impact - out of all of this, what we are most looking forward to is the non-stories we’ll have to tell.
Read MoreAshlee and I recently got to visit our team in Thailand for the first time since January 2020, along with a dear friend from Austin.
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