By Dan Estabrook – September 22, 2008
Erica Simon designs beautiful jewelry. She also saw a problem in one of our poorest neighboring countries and wanted to help. Combine these two interests and what do you get? Erica’s new diyite necklace collection.
Erica told me about this exciting new project: “diyite means dignity in Haitian and benefits SOIL, a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting soil resources, empowering communities and transforming wastes into resources in Haiti, one of the most economically impoverished and culturally rich counties in the Western Hemisphere.”
SOIL is short for Sustainable Organic Integrated Livlihoods and was founded by Erica’s best friend, Sasha Kramer, an ecologist and human rights observer who has been working in northern Haiti in the town of Milot since 2004. The organization is attempting to restore tillable soil in Haiti, most of which has disappeared as a result of deforestation and erosion. SOIL’s mission is clear and focused — to protect soil resources, empower communities and transform wastes into resources in Haiti.
Erica is working with the local community in Milot to help them distribute the Inspiration necklace. It is made from peonia seeds which the women themselves collect. At one time, they used to sell these necklaces to tourists but that market has disappeared.
So, Erica is distributing these masterpieces through her own brand. The necklace sells for $16, of which $4 goes to SOIL — you can purchase one here. The other necklace in the diyite collection is of Erica’s own design. The Action is made up of smoky quartz, job’s tears and sterling silver and retails for $160 – with 25% going to SOIL.
But Erica’s true passion in this project is helping the Haitians. Her voice is laced with excitement as she tells me about the good work her friend Sasha is accomplishing in the country.
“Sasha has worked to install compost toilets for the community that actually creates new soil so that people can someday grow their own food and crops,” Erica tells me. “Now Sasha is creating art projects with community children. The art utilizes garbage they find on the island.”
Sasha is also recruiting talented singers for Haiti’s own version of American Idol. Erica has promised to try to obtain video of this children’s project to share with you right here on Tonic News.
Erica’s combination of designing and doing good is just at it’s beginning.
“Haiti is a really underrepresented country with a lot of serious issues. Haitians have wonderful spirits and don’t have an opportunity to help themselves. Supporting SOIL is one way we can all help” Erica reminds me. “As for my diyite collection, even if someone buys the $16 necklace it really helps.”
Erica is one of many designers opting to help the world through their work. It is clear that she takes this responsibility seriously.
“I have a place in my heart to do good things for the world,” Erica told me.
Help Erica do good and please check out the collection here. More about SOIL here (Tonic News will also interview Sasha Kramer in the near future to learn more about her work in Haiti).