While doing some research for the Story Company, I recently came upon a non-profit group located in Chiang Mai, Thailand called Thai Village. As I searched among their products, I fell in love with the beautiful handmade earrings and necklaces made by Gon, and the handmade tin Christmas ornaments by Mhee. Here is the story of Gon and Mhee...

Gon is a 23 year old twin from the Tak Province in Thailand. He grew up in a rural village in a large family with seven siblings. From the Hmong ethnic group, he learned first hand how to grow crops and help his family earn a living by working in their potato, corn, and marigold flower fields. Gon is the first of his family to attend college, and hopes to return to his home village after University to help support them. Gon is a hardworking, outgoing young leader and has brought you our Story Company Halo Earrings and Necklaces!

Mhee is a young Laotian man who grew up in a family full of boys, Mhee’s father died when he was very young. In spite of this, Mhee always had an example of work ethic in his home, his mother worked hard to find sufficient income to make ends meet. Seeing his mother sacrifice on behalf of her children motivated Mhee to be an honest man, and a hard-worker. Recently, Mhee and his wife returned to her home village in rural Laos to prepare for the birth of their first baby girl. Now Mhee is able to work full-time on crafting tin Christmas ornaments in their home to support his family while also being near and spend time with them. A young man of integrity, charisma, and many talents, Mhee is proud to work hard to support his wife, daughter, and extended family through using his gifts.

While partnering with Thai Village, it has been my great privilege to work with Liz Meister, the founder, and Katie Lehman, who assists Liz. Liz and Katie both have huge hearts for the people of Thailand, and it shows in all they do. Their purpose is achieved in the work they do while working every day alongside their friends in Thailand, by walking through real life situations with them, and by the programs they provide in handicraft training, vocational skills, community development, and education.

Your purchase of these lovingly hand-crafted earrings, necklaces and tin ornaments gives Gon and Mhee the financial ability to care for their families; providing the food, schooling, clothing and shelter needed for them to thrive.