Creating a common thread...by creating change in remote areas of Guatemala? Sign me up!

Hilo (pronounced "[hee-low]") is Spanish for “thread”, and Humble Hilo believes in their modern threads based in ancient Guatemalan techniques. This fashionable philanthropy was started by two mothers, Lauren and Erica, and a portion of the proceeds goes to the following missions in Guatemala: Infant and Child Nutrition, Education, and Microfinance for Women.

What I love is that they don’t just sell a product, but they continue to invest in the lives of the women making it. From these women, that change spreads to more and more! Here are some key facts about their mission, their products, and their story:

1. #humbledeeds - When you buy this Humble Deeds Bracelet, Humble Hilo challenges you to do something good while wearing it. Whether small or big, tag Humble Hilo in social media and share your story to inspire others. Best part? You get TWO bracelets, so the goal is to give it to someone who will do the same...and thus, the multiplier effect unfolds.
2. Huipil (pronounced “[wē-pēl′]”) - Humble Hilo uses recycled huipiles to create their bags, which sustains production, jobs, but also culture. In Guatemala, the indigenous Mayan families wear traditional dresses called traje. This is a true art form passed down through many generations; each village has a specific pattern and style, often with different weaving techniques. The square-cute blouse is called a huipil, while the skirt is called a corte. It usually takes 3-4 months to make one huipil, and all the designs are done by memory, making this beautiful creation, mi don (my gift) of cultural and artistic pride.
3. As stated before, proceeds go right back into bettering the lives of the women creating these products, as well as sustaining economic opportunities that will even outlast their sturdy and durable materials! This is done in partnership with the humanitarian organization World Link Partners.

From handwoven huipil backpacks to traditional Guatemalan leather sandals, each product lists what your purchase will do in regards to nutrition, microfinance, and literacy. At checkout, you get to pick where your funds go! To me, that weaves a powerful tapestry of change, and I am so proud to be a common thread for good.

Follow Humble Hilo on Instagram and Facebook, see their story in a short documentary, and keep up-to-date on how your purchase is changing lives with their News Blog.

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Every effort is made to verify the accuracy of these external resources; however, Diana Mao and Nomi Network cannot guarantee or control the content, usefulness, or appropriateness of these sites or that their products are 100% slave free.