THANKFUL THURSDAY: LITTLE GEMS USA

Happy Thankful Thursday!

A few weeks ago, I was sitting across the table at dinner from the sweetest lady who I had just met in person, but felt like I already knew pretty well. How cool are Instagram friendships that become real life friendships? Can I get an Amen?

Leslie and I connected because of our similar hearts for people. She started LittleGemsUSA, a jewelry company that allows women to look stylish while positively impacting the world. She donates 50% of profits to help women and children at risk! Yes, FIFTY percent.

Leslie shared more of the story behind LittleGemsUSA with me. Please take the time to read her story! I promise it will be heart changing:

"Over the years, I’ve had my eyes opened to the fact that so many people around me are experiencing immense pain. I looked around and thought, “Why isn’t somebody doing something about this?” I wanted to see big corporations that have the money help fix the problems.  

I justified myself in thinking, 'I can’t change the world. I’m only me.' 

However, I soon came to the conclusion that I could at least try to do something. If I was the person praying in desperation, wouldn’t I want someone to at least try? 

So I started LittleGemsUSA. Whatever happens or doesn’t happen is for God’s Glory. You’ll find these words on the bottom right corner of every page on my site - 'Soli Deo Gloria' - 'to God alone be the glory'.

I'm honored to be supporting several organizations that rescue women and girls from trafficking here in Chicago & India. Children who live on the streets are at great risk for being pulled into slavery, so I have been supporting a charity called Love Alive International in Rwanda. Through them we sponsor 6 children who are so impoverished that they cannot buy the required school uniform and school supplies that are needed to go to free public school. 

Knowing that you have shared God’s love with someone and helped move the needle in their life is very powerful, especially when there is so much need.

Even if you don't have the means to purchase something from LittleGemsUSA to help support our charities (I’ve been there), something as simple as “likes” and “shares” on our social media accounts help us gain more exposure. Believe it or not, that is the greatest need we have right now. Following and sharing our posts is like putting out your hand and pulling a person up who is praying for that hand of help. 

Look for us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter. Sign up for our newsletter and get updates on charities and become eligible for our giveaways. 

I’ve created a coupon code for this week for anyone that wants to purchase.  Use coupon code: grace10 at checkout and receive 10% off your purchase!

Thanks to Joanna, I recently bought a Sevenly shirt that says: “Have the courage to take the first step and the strength to carry on.” The first step is always scary. I’m sure there is someone out there that is standing on the edge of an opportunity and hesitating. My advice: Do it! We may fail here and there, but in between failures there are also successes. You can help change the world for good."

Incredible story right?

And what's even more incredible is that Leslie is giving away a gorgeous statement necklace, scarf and notebook from LittleGemsUSA! The perfect summer accessories. All you have to do is follow both of us on Instagram and find the picture below for instructions on how to enter to win! Good luck! (Giveaway opens 7/16 at 10 PM CST and closes 7/20 at 11:59 PM.)