Sole Hope

Our NEW Blog

2011-07-27T10:54:00.000-07:00

Ok, this is our LAST blog move...

Please visit us at our NEW blog: www.solehope.com/blog/

(You will be able to comment easier on this blog-YAY!)

Camp Shoe Cutting Party

2011-07-25T07:00:00.000-07:00

One of Sole Hope's most popular events are our shoe cutting parties. Many individuals, civic groups, church groups and schools participate in these parties around the country every week. We have just started working with summer camps as well. This shoe cutting party took place recently at T Bar M Ranch camp in Texas.

Here is a letter from the lady who organized this for the camp!
"Well today was our kick off day with letting campers make shoes. We had 3 cabins (10 per cabin) give it a go today and we will have a few more try it out this week. We will expand to more and more cabins as we have materials for. I wanted to send you a few pics. Fun to see campers put these together! Each cabin spent time praying for y'alls mission and for the kids that will get these shoes. In addition we gave campers the option of cutting some material out and attaching it to a safety pin so that they can put it on something of theirs and be mindful of praying for y'all and the kids in africa. Gosh, I just love this!"

New Logo Shirts

2011-07-22T07:00:00.000-07:00

Our new Sole Hope logo shirts are in!!

Only, this time we added something to the back of the shirt. We also have them available for children.

To get yours today click on the red STORE button on the upper right corner of this blog.

George in the U.S.

2011-07-19T07:00:00.000-07:00

George Magera, the "big man" in charge of Sole Hope Uganda is visiting the U.S. from Uganda and is coming to Asheville, NC! He will be speaking on July 22nd at 6pm in the Ramble Biltmore Forest. Join us in listening to him share his heart about what Sole Hope is doing in his village from someone who gets to interact with our shoemakers on a daily basis. He will also talk about Ekubo Ministries, the ministry he and his wife are running to take care of the orphans, widows and others Sole Hope is putting shoes on.

5 Valley Springs Drive

Asheville, NC 28803

When entering the gate of the Ramble please tell the gatekeeper you are there with the Andy Stenberg event with Sole Hope. From the gate house you will drive straight back into the pavilion area...you can't miss it! If it is raining, or looks like it is going to rain please bring a blanket for an African style evening of sitting on the ground. For those unable to sit on the ground we will have chairs. Don't forget to invite your friends, we would hate for anyone to miss out on this amazing opportunity.

A Letter from Kunda

2011-07-05T19:32:00.000-07:00

A letter from Kunda with Sole Hope Zambia. So wonderful! Here is part of her letter to Sole Hope USA...

"The ladies have continued to make shoes and they are very excited about it. They are not just excited but very very grateful that they now know how to make shoes, simple as they may appear but VERY VERY CONFORTABLE, CHEAP AND NICE. You have been here Asher and you have seen how both kids and the adults walk bear foot causing a lot of ringworms both on the kids and adults. Buying decent shoes for the widows and orphans at Wiphan IS A VERY BIG CHALLENGE so that the coming in of Sole-hope is SUCH A BIG AND SWEET BLESSING TO ALL OF US AT WIPHAN.

WE WILL FOREVER BE VERY GRATEFUL.

TONNES OF LOVE,

KUNDA FOR WIPHAN "

It is a great and fulfilling thing to do something for someone else. It is more blessed to give than to receive. That includes your time, money, possessions.

Until next time,

Asher

Industries for the Blind

2011-06-30T20:42:00.000-07:00

It has been a wonderful and inspiring day for some of the Sole Hope team. We have the privilege and opportunity to go to Industries for the Blind. We wanted to talk about a possible partnership with them and Sole Hope. For people who are blind or visually impaired in or around Winston-Salem, Asheville, and Mayaguez, Puerto Rico, IFB provides meaningful opportunities for employment, training, and support. They have a long history—beginning in 1936—of making high quality products on-time and on-budget primarily for the US government and military. They also provide optical services to our nation’s veterans.

From the moment I walked into the office of IFB I was captivated. You could tell they were different. They are not just different because of the services they provide, or the fact that over 75% of their staff are legally blind or fully blind...but there was just an overwhelming sense of pride and professionalism that lingered in the building. From the first interactions with a visually impaired Director of First Impressions, to the warm smile and handshake as we walked the manufacturing warehouse, it was all received with great pride. These people were proud to have a job! And they should be!! Many of the men and women there were doing things I don't think I can do with two seeing eyes. As we walked the path through the warehouse lined by raised metal and yellow tape we were able to put a name with a face. A product with a soul. These products for the military commissary and troops were not manufactured in China by children too young to be working. They are made right here in the U.S. by men and women who need jobs!

This woman is blind and deaf! She had the brightest smile and even reached her hand out to shake mine when she knew I was there. She helping assemble staplers and was fantastic at it!

This gentleman above was sewing the X onto the strap of an Army bag.

Above are just some of the clothing items the make for the U.S. Army.

Above was one of the most cheerful men I've ever met. He was putting glue into tiny holes to aid in the assembly of a stapler.

Above a few gentlemen were sewing some of the final touches onto a poncho for the military. These poncho liners will snap into a poncho and be used for warmth and even occasionally like a sleeping bag.

This woman had her aid dog Raven sitting by her feet as she packaged dog treats into packets of six nice and neatly. Our guide joked that while Raven is relaxing his owner is hard at work and when he is working she is relaxing.

This part just blew me away.

These pattern pieces have just come out of a cutting machine that cut a certain number precisely. Why this amazed me I'm not sure. Maybe it is because I've spent hours cutting out patterns and just seeing the magnitude of work that this machine and those wonderful people can do...I was in AWE!

This was one of my favorite parts of the tour because it just cracked me up! These two men who can't see are assembling kaleidoscopes. Ironic, right?! The funny part was the man pictured above leaned back and in a joking manner asked our guide Randy how these things work. When Randy told him you look through the tiny hole and see colors and shapes the gentlemen said, "Oh. I've never tried one of these." His dry humor was refreshing and had us all laughing.

It is days like today that seem to come in perfect rhythm with how I am feeling, that I am inspired beyond words. I am beyond grateful for the opportunity to witness the pride and joy that comes with having a job at IFB. It was these men and women who cannot see opened up my eyes to what Sole Hope can be. There is so much out there do discourage us and many other worthy causes from pursuing what has been put on their heart. But on days like today I remember that we can beat the odds and challenge the public to think outside the box

just like Industries for the Blind has done.

Never say never. And never say it can't be done.

Uganda Sewers Update

2011-06-26T09:40:00.000-07:00

It is a good day when we get pictures and updates from one of our groups of men and women working in Africa. This week we got several photographs from our Sole Hope men and women in Uganda. These pictures make me smile. They remind me why we do what we do here.

Thank you to our supporters for making this possible!

It is because of the generous donations of our our supporters that we could go into this very small village in the bush of Uganda and buy sewing machines for this group of committed individuals who are working hard to support their families.

I love how these women are working together. I wish I could listen in on their conversations as they make shoes. With the help of Paul and George they have gathered more supplies since we left and are making Sole Hope their own by making some minor changes to the shoe.

Below: Do you see the little hand in the lower left corner of this photograph? The wonderful thing about Sole Hope in Africa and America is that is opens the door for mothers to work. These women, like so many in America cannot afford to get child care while they go off to work. Perhaps this child will be making shoes when they are older?

Above: Unlike in Zambia...in Uganda we have men working too. We have one man who came to work as a Sole Hope shoe maker who was recently off drugs and had lost his whole family to bad decisions. He needed some sort of work to support his children, to get his family back...he was ready to work and to change his life! The week Sole Hope got to his village he rose up as a leader when he jumped right in and did an excellent job making shoes! The day the Sole Hope team was scheduled to leave we noticed something different in him. It was not only that his head was held a little higher or that he had a smile on his face. He had small children with him. We asked George, the village leader, who did the children belong to. They were this man's children! They were being returned to him since he had a job!

We are working on raising $4,500 for a building for the Sole Hope workers to go to work in. As you can see, right now they are working on the ground and on small benches. If you would like to donate to this building fund please donate on the right side of this blog and put in the memo "Uganda Building".

This is beautiful. The hard work. The diligence. The excitement about work.

If you would like to spread the word about Sole Hope check out our NEW circle stickers. You can either get yours in our website store...or by clicking the red store button in the upper right hand corner.

Only $2 to help spread the word about Sole Hope

And just in case you have not seen it....check out our new website!!!!

www.solehope.org

T-Shirt Contest Finalists

2011-06-17T13:07:00.000-07:00

Here are the t-shirt contest finalists...

(Thank you to everyone who submitted a design! It was so fun to see what you came up with.)

Above: Sole Africa

Above: (sorry this one is not turned the correct way!) Sole Equation- youth submission for the youth shirt

Above: Dino Wearing Shoes- youth submission for the youth shirt

Above: Mother Teresa Quote Shirt

Above: Help Spread the Hope

These shirts are being voted on now on Sole Hope's Facebook page. Voting ends this Sunday. Head on over and "like" your favorite shirt! The winner will receive $150 and a free shirt. Also, this will be our next run of Sole Hope shirts. Which one would you wear?

A Long Anticipated Day

2011-06-14T19:47:00.000-07:00

Where shall we start....let me start with I have lots to tell you and only a short amount of time. Ready. Set. Go!

Tomorrow is a long anticipated day for the Sole Hope crew. We will be launching our new website built by Scullytown. I cannot say enough wonderful things about those who work for Scullytown! Wow! Wow! Wow! They operate professionally, with integrity, creatively and are at the top of their game. The Sole Hope site probably does not even flex its muscles compared to what they are capable of designing but it is perfect for our needs. It will be beyond perfect. If you need an integrative web designer I would recommend them hands down! Their website is www.scullytown.com
There will be more facets for the web page to come...like a kick you-know-what online store, more photographs, testimonials, blog and other features that I don't know about because I'm not the designer that will help you get to know Sole Hope better.

Sole Hope needs reliable volunteers to help is with Bele Chere merchandise and the Sole Hope booth at Bele Chere the last three days in July. This will be an opportunity to have a blast all while helping Sole Hope. If you have been looking for a way to help us-here is how!!! Please email us at info@solehope.com to inquire about dates and times if you are interested.

Don't forget! Wednesday, June 15th at midnight is the end of our shirt contest for Sole Hope. Please submit your drawings/computer generated ideas to info@solehope.com before midnight to be entered.

And last but not least...on May 2nd we moved into our new office/storage space in downtown Asheville on Wall Street. We are located in the Miles Building...(if you are a history buff like me you have to read the history of this building...it makes going to work there so much more interesting!!) We have a small space and our shoe making supplies and merchandise grew out of the space before we even moved in! We need a warehouse! Seriously! If you know someone who rents or sells warehouses in the Asheville area hook us up. We have an offer they won't want to refuse.

G'day y'all.

-Asher

When We Go Missing...

2011-06-10T13:53:00.000-07:00

When we go missing it just means BIG things are happening! Sole Hope has been working hard on launching our baby shoes in downtown Asheville, getting our new website ready for it's debut on Wednesday and the blog shortly after, ordering merchandise for our online store (and sewing shoes for our store like crazy!) and our booth at Bele Chere... (Asheville's largest summer festival) moving into our new office in the Miles Building downtown, planning and preparing for two Sole Hope board members trip back to Africa in August, preparing to work with the Western North Carolina Rescue Mission and so so much more.

Our many thanks and deepest gratitude to those supporters who have enabled us to help others through their donations in these past few months. We are continually in need of donations to keep the ball rolling...and one fun way you can donate is by buying merchandise! Check out these new Fosterweld bracelets that just came out today!

They are made in the USA and are leather, comfortable and help spread the word about Sole Hope! Until our new store is up and running we are selling them four at a time...and they are completely one of a kind! So, if you see one in our store get it before it is gone! They are $15 and that includes shipping! (Click on the red STORE button in the upper right hand corner)

We also have new shirts coming out! The t-shirt contest for children and adults ends on June 15th so if you want to submit your idea go for it! We will have 3 days of voting-may the best design win!

Hard Working Women

2011-06-03T15:48:00.000-07:00

The women in Zambia are nothing less than hard workers. These women have an outlet where they belong, are loved and are learning a new trade. One of the trades these women below are learning is shoemaking through Sole Hope.

Kunda, (wearing blue on the right) talks to the ladies about their shoes.

Above are a lot of shoe uppers sewn together...the women will work from here and use the industrial machine to sew on the soles.

(above) Several uppers with soles, and some without.

These women are an inspiration to me and keep me motivated to work hard to make sure they have a trade that will help sustain their families and give them confidence.

Word to the Website

2011-05-29T15:34:00.000-07:00

Do you know what this is a picture of?

Two people totally engrossed in their mobile devices...no...two very yummy Starbucks drinks...well, yes-but that is not what I was getting at. Two rock stars with Sole Hope...yeah, but that's not it either.

It is a picture of hope scribbled out on paper. We want you to catch the vision we have here at Sole Hope...and we want you to feel just as passionately about it as we do because together we can impact many. This past week a few of the Sole Hope board met with a brilliant woman to discuss our vision and mission. What do we want you to know...what are we all about and how do we express that clearly?

All of this is for our new website that will make its debut in just a few short weeks thanks to Scullytown! Brace yourselves because it is fantastic!

Zambia Update May 2011

2011-05-27T08:23:00.000-07:00

It is glorious day when we get an update with photographs from our workers in Africa! Today we received an email from Zambia. The ladies are working hard and doing a wonderful job!

John (below) is guiding and directing the ladies in their sewing. Doesn't he look spiffy in his suit? He is very proud of his job and takes it seriously. Behind him you can see all the uppers they have sewn. They just got an industrial sewing machine this month so they can now start to sew the uppers to the soles.

I cannot tell you how proud I am of these men and women. They inspire me!

Chocolate and Shoes

2011-05-26T18:37:00.000-07:00

This week some of the Sole Hope team members attended the DOCICA launch party at the French Broad Chocolate Lounge. We had a great time with over 75 Sole Hope and DOCICA supporters. Not to mention there was free chocolate for the guests of the party thanks to DOCICA!

Men and women cut out shoes and I had a chance to speak about Sole Hope. It was a wonderful time...so wonderful that several of us stayed until midnight when the party ended at 10:30pm.

One new and exciting opportunity Sole Hope will now have available at every shoe cutting party are these donation pins. For $10 you can put a pair of shoes on a child and with your donation you get this pin to remind you or give to a friend.

Thank you for all of the encouragement we received, for the donations made and for helping us spread the word. Sole Hope would not be possible without the support of those who see the need is giving a child without a voice a chance at a healthier life and adults without hope a future. Thank you also to Jen and Mel (below) of DOCICA for this amazing opportunity!

Check out this video...

Sole Hope in California

2011-05-24T12:21:00.000-07:00

This week Sole Hope is in southern California via High Wright. We are working with homeless & rescue shelters around the U.S. to start Sole Hope shoemaking businesses. Hugh is meeting with directors from across the nation to talk about how we can work together and partner to change lives here in America, while also changing lives in other impoverished and forgotten communities around the world. Here are some phone pictures of the Sole Hope table.

Hugh showed some of our different shoes and patterns.

Thank you Hugh for your tireless dedication to Sole Hope and for all the ways you help with your hands and your heart!

Shoe Cutting and Chocolate

2011-05-23T12:04:00.000-07:00

The DOCICA magazine is throwing an awesome launch party tomorrow, May 24th at the French Broad Chocolate Lounge on Lexington Street.

Join us! RSVP by CLICKING HERE.

A word from DOCICA:

chocolate. friends. sole hope....too awesome.
Join as we celebrate our Premier Issue and help out SOLE HOPE by cutting out shoe uppers for orphans in Uganda & Zambia!!!

Please bring an old pair of jeans (grab 'em at GOODWILL if you need to) & pinking shears (if you got em).

Bring a friend and be entered doubly into our next contest.

Check out the chocolate lounges menu at www.frenchbroadchocolates.com

Time	Tuesday, May 24 · 7:30pm - 10:30pm

Location	French Broad Chocolate Lounge 10 S. Lexington Asheville, North Carolina

PS

2011-05-22T20:45:00.000-07:00

Friday was a couple days ago...remember what happens on Fridays in May? A new issue of DOCICA comes out! This issue is about Sole Hope & a huge passion of mine... clothing for a cause! Check it out...then go buy some baby shoes if you live near Asheville. :)

Second Installment: Docica Magazine

2011-05-13T14:24:00.000-07:00

It's Friday in May so you know what that means? Another installment of Sole Hope via Asher Collie in Docica Magazine! Check it out. And if you have not read all about this super awesome magazine go to their website and read all about why its called DOCICA.

You will also get a peak inside the Collie's home...

2011-05-07T15:59:00.000-07:00

What an honor. This month Sole Hope was featured in an online magazine, Docica.

To read the article and see pictures click here!

Watch This

2011-05-05T20:39:00.000-07:00

This group organized by local teens gets involved...watch below.

Fruit of the Spirit - Sole Hope Shoe Cutting from jason garris on Vimeo.

To have a party like this of your own contact our shoe cutting expert, Ginger Frank at

1-855-516-HOPE extension 708

Students for Sole Hope

2011-05-04T19:15:00.000-07:00

One of the best things about having something you are passionate about is having others become passionate about it with you. After an interview on WLOS news in Asheville I was contacted by Haywood Community College's Entrepreneurial class. They asked if I would donate my time to come talk about Sole Hope and how we got started. It was my pleasure. At the end of the class they spent some time time cutting out shoes and we talked about the benefit to children wearing shoes and widows having jobs. After I left Sole Hope did not leave the classroom. I was contacted a few weeks later with this blog...www.studentsforsolehope.blogspot.com

If you want to view the blog they made to document their process of raising awareness check out.

Lack of awareness these days is no longer an issue. We have become compassion fatigued. I love when I meet people like I did at Haywood Community College. They participated in finding a remedy by helping us raise awareness and money. (To see how they helped us raise money check out the blog above.)

Let this inspire you to gather a group, involve your family or do something on your own to make a difference.

Shoe Cutting Party with Miss Asheville

2011-04-30T06:48:00.000-07:00

If you've known about Sole Hope for a while then you probably have heard of our shoe cutting parties. These take place all over the country and are a way for students, churches, businesses, communities and the like to have take part in making a difference in Africa.

Alyssa Scully volunteering on behalf of Sole Hope and Brittney Clark

Brittney Clark cutting out shoes for Africa

These gatherings are fun and can can be tailored to the group that is getting together. We heard from Miss Asheville a few months ago and she asked us if she could do a shoe cutting party at a college here in Asheville. She has a huge heart and we liked her excitement in getting involved. The shoes that were cut out that day were then taken with the Sole Hope team in March to Africa!

Those uppers are then used in the training process for the African men and women who are learning a new trade. Once the shoes are sewn together in Africa they are handed out to children in the village.

Holding a shoe cutting party is a fun way to help Sole Hope! If you are interested in doing this please email info@solehope.com and our coordinator will get you details.

Meet Patrick Scully

2011-04-26T19:01:00.000-07:00

I've said in previous posts I would feature one board member every now and then. Today I would like to tell you about Patrick Scully. He is the vice chair of Sole Hope and owns Scullytown. There are a few words that describe Patrick accurately and I think everyone who knows him would agree there are a couple things that just stand about him.

Patrick is a creative genius, business dude (not a "business man"...that would require a tie and I don't think I'll ever see Patrick in a tie) who is passionate about a few things in life! In no certain order his passions would include (in my humble opinion) God, his family, Scullytown, Sole Hope, Crossfit and coffee.

He was so ready to learn how to make the Sole Hope shoes for himself. In fact, the pair on this little boy Joshua's feet were made by Patrick a couple weeks before we left.

I love the perspective Patrick brings to the Sole Hope group...he is a leader but is also humble enough to be led. After taking a trip with him to Africa I can honestly say it is our pleasure to have him on the Sole Hope team! His wife, Alyssa is equally as awesome...I'll have to write about her next time. I cannot say enough wonderful things about Patrick so I'll just share some pictures with you...

Above: this is the Sole Hope Uganda team. Patrick is in the middle back row with another board member of ours, Hugh Wright. Holly and I are the two slightly less tan people in the front row. ;)

I only knew the working Patrick for the first five years I knew him... (P-please don't kill me for showing this) but don't let him fool you. This man can be c-c-crazy! Here he is riding a bike in Uganda with our African brothers Moses and Zziwa.

Patrick's heart was stolen by the children in Uganda and Zambia! His world was rocked and he was forever changed on the March 2011 trip with Sole Hope.

Shirt Design Contest

2011-04-26T16:33:00.000-07:00

We need a new super sweet shirt design. If you win our shirt design contest you win a shirt with your design and $150! This shirt will make its debut at Bele Chere in July.

Please share this link with the world! You can use the easy share buttons right below! Or, you can swipe the shirt contest image above and post on your blog.

One Year Ago Today

2011-04-06T19:23:00.000-07:00

One year ago today I had shared these sentiments from my heart with my Sole Hope supporters. After a full day of Sole Hope meetings to improve our website, video, launch shoe sales in the U.S., and improve the overall impact of Sole Hope in the U.S. and abroad I am very aware of the strides toward HOPE that have been made in one year. I am blown away when I think about how Sole Hope has touched and really changed the lives of hundreds already. Without further delay, my reflection from last year.

-Asher Collie

I’m thinking of those babies tonight that go to sleep on a hard mud floor. Hoping that because they know nothing different they will feel comfort and warmth tonight.

I’m thinking of those wives who have lost their one true love, who are now left to care for children…some that are not even their own.

I’m praying tonight for the little souls that will wake in the morning to a bright new sun, believing they will feel hope and happiness deep down in their hearts.

I’m thinking of my friend on the street who has found a home tonight. As he settles into his new home with the help of his “brothers” and “sisters” this afternoon, I pray he will find peace in all circumstances.

I’m mourning the loss of the two children that slept securely upstairs for half a year. Desiring a new day for them tomorrow where they feel like they belong in their new home…where they feel loved.

Please don’t forget those who are out of your sight, they need YOU like you wouldn’t believe.

A Quickened Pace

2011-04-05T19:11:00.000-07:00

Sole Hope has been growing at a quickened pace. It is a good issue to have. Every day we are making decisions that will impact our future and the futures of thousands of others-and we make every decision with that in mind. It has been a while since I posted, I thought I would give a quick update on what the Sole Hope team has been up to.

Scullytown is designing a new, and completely killer website for Sole Hope. So long to our homemade one...you will be able to see details on each of our programs, learn all about Sole Hope and how we got started, get to know the Sole Hope team, learn about the man or woman that made your shoes and SO much more. Oh, and you can view it on your iPhone, just in case you're sitting chatting about Sole Hope to your friends while you're out and about and want to show them what we are all about! (There will be tons more wonderful things about our website...you'll just have to wait and see)
Speaking of shoes, we are working on getting shoes made here in the U.S. to be sold in the U.S. one for one. So, for every pair you buy, we donate a pair to a child in need. This has been a long time coming and something we get multiple requests for every month. Soon, very soon.
An adult Sole Hope shoe is on its way. We are working hard to create the perfect shoe for you, your friends, your neighbors and your neighbors neighbors. It is going to be splendid-and we can't wait to show you what it looks like!
We are working to launch our African headquarters in Uganda. This is a huge step in being able to better serve our programs in Africa while they get their feet off the ground and start their self sustaining businesses.
We are working hard to get the word out about how extremely important it is that children have shoes to wear. By doing this we hope to create awareness that evokes a response. We want to partner with businesses, individuals and others that want to buy shoes for the villages in Uganda and Zambia in bulk. This will create jobs in their local economy (shoe making) and will put shoes on children. No child deserves to walk around with jigger infested feet-yet it happens every day!

(Jigger infestation from the village we were just in, in Uganda)

If you are interested in sponsoring some feet, or know someone who runs a business and might want to-please tell them about us or click the donate tab on the right side of this blog and in your notes tell us how many shoes you are donating.

Sponsoring Feet Through A Pair of Sole Hope Shoes

225 pairs and up—$5/pair

125-200 pairs—$7/pair

25-100 pairs—$10/pair

25 pairs—$15/pair

There is so much more I will share about later. There is change coming to village upon village and city upon city because of the efforts of so many in America. Your donations are changing lives and the time and effort spent spreading the word about Sole Hope is deeply appreciated.

-Asher Collie

Encouragement From Zambia

2011-03-31T07:16:00.000-07:00

Here is a letter sent to us from Kunda in Zambia, Africa. Kunda sent this sweet letter the day we arrived home to the US. I wanted to share it because I feel like it says better than I can, how Sole Hope has already started to change lives and bring hope! Be encouraged, your support is helping bring HOPE to these ladies and Sole Hope is so thankful for YOU, our supporters.

PRECIOUS ASHER AND THE SOLE-HOPE TEAM,

God, gives the best and every good and peferct gift comes from the Lord! WIPHAN - LADIES AND I, will never cease to thank God
for you wonderful Asher, your family and the Sole - Hope team you came with! The just ended Sole trip was highly treasured by all of us at Wiphan and you cant imagine the JOY, HOPE AND EXCITEMENT you have left in the lives of the poor widows at Wiphan!! SHOE-MAKING, has come at the right time and it IS WIPHAN'S DREAM COME TRUE!!!. A million, million thanks for loving us and for the time you spent with us, we are very very grateful and God richly, richly bless you so very very much. Shoe making has brought alot of hope in the lives of Wiphan ladies and thier lives will never be the same. We had a very wonderful time today with the ladies and all of them are DETERMINED TO WORK VERY HARD and I told them that working hard is what will make a difference in their lives.

SWEET ASHER, YOU ARE TO US, A GOD-GIVEN PRECIOUS GIFT AND WE WILL FOREVER LIVE TO THANK GOD FOR YOU.

THE BIBLE ALSO SAYS THAT THE BLESSINGS OF THE LORD ADDETH NO SORROW AND THIS IS SO TRUE!! YOU ARE SUCH A SPECIAL BLESSING TO US AND TO THE ZAMBIAN WIDOWS AND ORPHANS. GOD HAS ALREADY STARTED USING YOU HIGHLY TO WIPE AWAY THE TEARS OF MANY WIDOWS AND ORPHANS OF OUR COUNTRY, AND AS SOLE - HOPE TEAM, YOU HAVE BROUGHT JOY, HAPPINESS, EXCITEMENT INTO OUR LIVES, AND THE LIVES OF SEVERAL WIDOWS AND ORPHANS OF NDOLA, A MILLION THANKS AND GOD RICHLY BLESS YOU.

ASHER AND SOLE - HOPE TEAM, A MILLION THANKS FOR BIENG SO SENSITIVE TO THE DESPERATE NEEDS OF THE WIDOWS AND ORPHANS AT WIPHAN.

A PEOPLE WHOSE FUTURE SEEMED SO DARK, ARE NOW ABLE TO SEE LIGHT OF HOPE AND A BRIGHT FUTURE AHEAD OF THEM.

A PEOPLE, WHO WERE ONCE THROWN OUT AND ABANDONED BY ALL, NOW KNOW THAT GOD LOVES THEM VERY MUCH BECAUSE OF THE GREAT LOVE THAT HAS BEEN EXTENDED TO THEM BY YOU ASHER AND THE SOLE - HOPE TEAM!! WE GREATLY, GREATLY APPRECIATE.

Asher, the ladies that you saw and taught how to make shoes, never had chance to go to school and the skill of shoe making has come as a BIG BLESSING!!.

TONNES AND TONNES OF LOVE,

Kunda for Wiphan.

We've Overcome

2011-03-26T07:39:00.000-07:00

I just ran across this old blog and it made me smile. I specifically posted this so when Sole Hope is where we are now it would be so much more gratifying and glorifying to God. I had SO many people when I was in this stage of Sole Hope make it sound like we were going to be defeated. They saw how hard it was to not be a shoe designer and design a shoe. I knew we'd have a shoe-I KNEW it. And I believe our shoes will keep getting better over the years. But for now I read this old blog post and just smile...because we have OVERCOME.

"Let me be real with you people…making shoes out of tires by hand is hard work! Designing a pattern that works takes more brain power than you’d think, and there are a million little details in shoe making that you don’t even begin to consider until you make a pair of shoes.

I was hoping that yesterday when my sewing buddy, Beth, came over that we would be able to make our last mock-up of a Sole Hope shoe and that I would be able to wear it for the next month solid to “test” it out. After 11.5 hours of working on ONE shoe yesterday I went to bed feeling very defeated! This last shoe some how turned out worse than the rest, and it was the 4th shoe I’ve made. I knew there would be challenges we would run into during this project-but I still struggle to not feel discouraged.

I know we will get there. I know the pattern and the products will all come together and we will have one amazing shoe design when this is over, but that time has not arrived. I am reminded of my hard work for “nothing” every time I move my hands today. My thumb has been numb for over 24 hours (do you think that’s bad?) and clicks every time I move it, I have a humongous blister on my finger and two slices in another finger. I have to say, I am thinking we might move away from the tire idea and onto micro cellular rubber or something similar. Something that does not require such dangerous measures to make a sole.

Why am I writing about this uneventful day I had yesterday? Well, I just want to keep everyone up to speed on the process. Let you see the REAL side to shoe making and also tell you about yesterday so you can rejoice in magnificence of how this comes together once our shoe design is completed and ready to take across the sea.

The day is coming, I have faith and am pushing myself to persevere even when I want to quit. This is all for something greater than myself and I am so thankful I can carry this burden."

-Asher Collie

Vlog Between Uganda And Zambia

2011-03-18T19:30:00.000-07:00

A Miracle In Uganda

2011-03-18T19:19:00.002-07:00

Changed Forever

2011-03-18T12:51:00.000-07:00

Nine air plane rides later the Sole Hope team arrived safely on American soil yesterday morning after our two week trip to Uganda and Zambia, Africa. I've tried to write this blog a hundred times and every time I am struck with a lack of words. Over the next few weeks I will be unpacking our trip in photographs, and I will tell you the story that changed four American lives forever. To give you a glimpse of my heart I will share this excerpt from my personal blog,

"If I only had one thousand words I might be able to explain to you the last two weeks of my life. The problem is, my heart has a thousand recollections that leave me speechless.

It has been about two weeks; two weeks for me to gather my thoughts about the one of the deepest experiences of my life. How do I explain what it feels like to have my heart go walking outside of my body? How do I gather the words that will paint a picture of pure bliss in the midst of poverty, hurt and pain? My experience in Africa was taken in this time in a very personal way. My heart was touched deeply, dare I say, deeper than ever before. I experienced more highs and lows in the past two weeks than I have in the past eight months. Leaving my family in Asheville while I venture off into the unknown, on a trip I knew would make my heart set sail has been beyond hard. I grew closer to three of my friends from Asheville that accompanied me than I ever thought I would. I grew to love five "strangers" in Uganda that I now call, with all sincerity, my family. I watched God do miracle after miracle and prepare the way for the greatness he has in store for Sole Hope. I experienced his favor and mercy in great ways. I witnessed the hard work and resiliency of over 100 Sole Hope workers in Zambia and Uganda. I saw hearts changed and lives moved, including my own."

This was just one pair of jigger infested feet.

From the Sole Hope Africa team, we thank you for your support and love! We could not impact others without you. This is not something we do on our own, nor is it something we desire to take glory for. There are over 100 men and women in Africa that have had their lives forever changed because of the hard work and dedication they have already put into shoe making with Sole Hope. Because of you were were able to buy two sewing machines and repair five more for shoe making. We were able to buy supplies for shoe making IN country to support the local economy and aid the self sustainability of the business.

Thank you very very much!

~Asher Collie

The team is headed home...

2011-03-17T07:50:00.000-07:00

We Will Miss Uganda!

2011-03-11T09:34:00.001-08:00

March 10
Our alarm clocks rang this AM at 2:00. That "ain't" civilized folks. But our plane's wheels were scheduled to leave the ground at 5:10AM which requires us to be at the airport no later than 3:10AM. We were not able to get to bed until after 10:00PM. And it has become "normal" and almost expected to unpack the day's events until our eyes become too heavy to hold open. My roommate Hugh and I pray every night. We have felt the need each day to ask for God's strength and wisdom. I don't think I will ever be able to go to sleep without first thanking God for His love and provision. We are so loved.

We landed in Zambia and were greeted with incredible favor of God. Customs must have been looking for something... We stood in line after getting our visas and watched as customs agents opened every bag and looked through every article of clothing and periodically removed things from the bags of the visitors in front of us either throwing them in the trash or placing them in a box which meant they were keeping something. We were pretty nervous. Our team each had two carry ons and two large suitcases (16 bags total) which could potentially mean that we would not be leaving the airport for quite some time. Not to mention feeling the "worry" that they might decided to take items from us that we desperately needed to teach the widows of Wiphan in Ndola. Asher and I were the first to put out bags on the table, and the agent ask to see any medication we might be traveling with. Asher pulled hers out first with a doctor note and after he read the note, he asked us who else we were traveling with. We pointed at Hugh and Holly. He then told us we were free to go. That was it. No other bags were checked. Not a single one.

We exited the airport thinking our Ndola friends would be there to greet us. But no one was there. Asher knew that something was not right. She had corresponded with Kunda (our Wiphan host) many times leading up to our mission trip, and was certain that she knew when our plane was to arrive in Ndola. So we decided to call Kunda after waiting 45 minutes. Before leaving the states we had arranged to borrow two Wiphan cell phones (Zambia phone numbers) so that when we arrived, we would be able to communicate with our Zambia friends. We opened our Zambia suitcase in search of the phones only to find that they had been stolen either in Uganda or in Kenya. What to do? A gentlemen who had been standing outside had overheard our dilemma and offered to lend us his phone so that we might try calling Kunda or Wiphan. Thank you Tom! You are an absolute saint! We were not able to locate Kunda so we decided to grab 2 taxi cabs to get us to the hotel we would be staying at until next Wednesday. The cab fee, something we had not budgeted for would cost 150,000 Kwacha ($30US).

We safely reached our hotel, and found out that Kunda was expecting our plane 2 hours later which was 12:30.

After sharing lunch with our Wiphan hosts, we went to meet the widows and orphans who we would be serving these next several days. These widows had been waiting for our arrival since 8:00A. We didn't arrive until mid afternoon. I can't wait until we are able to post the video of the reception. One hundred widows lined the street on which our van drove into the compound... they were singing beautiful music while throwing flower petals at us. I for one felt completely undeserving of this kind of love and respect. The van stopped and we all got out... There was singing, clapping, dancing, crying, hugging. And were led into the Fellowship Hall where the widows honored us with more singing and dancing.

Tomorrow, we will search for supplies. Please pray for our safety.

Loving you!
Patrick

Eyes to See With

2011-03-11T09:31:00.003-08:00

March 8

Eyes to see with.

In spite of sleeping only 4 hours last night, I woke without the anxiety that was weighing on me last night. My three teammates have continued to be such an inspiration. And, of course the children here remind me why we are doing what we are doing.

Well, it's evening seven of our two week mission and I have again managed to split a small portion of my noggin open by walking into the corner of an open window. Crap! So grateful to have had all of the required vaccinations before leaving the country. It's pretty embarrassing because when we arrived in Kampala 4 days ago, I walked out of the airport and into a solid steal post which split my left eyebrow wide open. "No big deal" I thought, but this evening's incident has me wondering if I shouldn't consider wearing my "specs" on a more regular basis.

The timing of the incident was quite perfect providing comic relief for all (including myself). And while Hugh attended to my head wound yet again, my team helped re-tell the story of the "old guy" in the group with the the eyes that weren't so good that night we arrived... We all enjoyed a long laugh, at my expense of course. We and our new African brothers and sisters are all beginning to feel the sting of knowing the Sole Hope Team must soon leave this village whose people have stolen each others hearts... We leave tomorrow morning. I am very sad as I write this. But it is a joyful sadness. I will deeply miss George, Christie, Moses, Zziwa, Brian, Chairman, Paul, Daniel, and all of the families and children who have opened their homes and welcomed us with such sincerity... I am certain that my God arranged this divine appointment for me. It is an experience that I will share with anyone who will listen.

Good eyesight or bad, I leave this village tomorrow with tearful eyes wide open and forever changed. I pray that any of you who have had even the slightest interest in visiting Africa take the steps to make it happen. If you need someone to go with, contact any of us at Sole Hope. We will be going back this summer. And will need as much help as you are willing to offer.

Thank you for your prayers these several days. My heart is filled with a hope that our hearts can recharge over the next 36 hours. We must arrive in Ndola Zambia both healthy and rested so that we can continue to the the "good work" we have been called to do.

Serving Him!
Patrick

Let's Make Something!

2011-03-11T09:30:00.001-08:00

March 7

Let's Make Something.
How many times have you spent hours upon hours planning for "something" only to find when the time for that "something" to actually happen, God reveals to you he has a different "something" planned altogether? Well, this "something" has happened today in Uganda. And what a sweet something it was. I am forever grateful that we, the Sole Hope team, decided before leaving the states that we would not over-plan our first teaching mission in Africa and that we would allow room for God to lead us through this mission day by day. And even hour by hour.

Today, we began to teach 19 villagers how to make shoes. George and Christy tell us that they have never seen their village so excited about learning something this new. And get this... Even some of the men of the Bugaboo including "Chairman" showed up to learn to make shoes. That says a ton. The potential impact of what God laid on Asher's heart nearly a year ago and what He has allowed us to bring to Bugaboo is seriously off the charts. Besides their weekly church service on Sundays, few things have brought this village together like the arrival of Sole Hope. I cannot believe that I am here to watch a village unwrap this beautiful gift of Hope. And the joy that we as a team, are feeling cannot be contained.

In some ways, the class that we taught today (the deconstructing of the shoe, the parts and materials used to make the Sole Hope shoe, introduction to the shoe patterns, basic pattern tracing on paper, pattern tracing on the actual material, cutting the pattern out of the material using pinking shears, cutting the heal plate out of a Coke bottle, and pinning all the pieces together) is my favorite class to teach. At the beginning of the class, the students get to see what a finished shoe looks like and then process through all the stages which, after many hours, leave each team of students (teams of 3) with a pair of shoe uppers that actually look like the Sole Hope shoe. Everyone remained engaged throughout the class, but when they finally pinned all of the patterns together at the end of the class, the students began clapping and cheering. To be completely honest, I don't think any of them believed that they were going to be able to make a pair of shoes. I wasn't so sure they would be able to get it either.

We ended the class knowing that something special had happened today. A Hope had been awakened. And for us, a joy that had been hidden deep within each of us was unlocked... a feeling of purpose was aroused and a secret was shared... That secret? It is much more Blessed to give than to receive. I finally understand what Jesus meant.

I have not come to be served... I have come to serve.

In gratitude,
Patrick

Beautiful Machines.... but no power ;0(

2011-03-11T09:28:00.001-08:00

March 6
Today, Paul and a technician built the machines in the home of one of the school's teachers here in the village. This home is within a reasonable distance to the very small generator that our hosts use to power a couple very basic appliances in their home... A small lamp and a power strip that Christie uses to keep her laptop charged so she can communicate with her friends and family back home. We have hoped that the same generator might be able to power at least one of the sewing machines. Unfortunately, "no dice".

So, after the machines were assembled we were staring at two sewing machines which we could not use until a bigger generator is purchased. We will need to raise this money somehow. The purchase of the machines literally tapped us of all the resources that we had allocated for Uganda and some of which we intended for our Zambia initiative. We hope that we can raise this money before our next visit this summer. Please contact us if you feel you would like to help with this small problem.

This evening, anxiety has begun to settle in. Tomorrow is our first teaching class. Things are just not where they need to be. We don't have working machines (yet) and we are still in need of one very important item in order to actually make shoes. We still needed tires to make the soles... Prior to our arrival, our host arranged to have a dozen or two tires delivered to the village. They were delivered, but they are motorcycle tires which are just too thick. They will not work. We need bicycle tires. And we have no clue where to get them, nor do we have time for another Kampala trip.

Tonight, Hugh and I will pray for help. We don't have all of the things we need. Snap!

In Him,
Patrick

Sole Hope in Uganda

2011-03-11T09:24:00.001-08:00

March 5
We are in Uganda! The warm welcome that has greeted us with is one that has changed my heart... A love that I thought could never exist. Our hosts (George, Christie, Zziwa, Moses, and Brian) have opened their home to us as if we were family.
I look forward to getting to know all of the children and villagers. Much to do today to prepare for teaching our new community how to make shoes. May God be with us as we venture into the city of Kampala to look for supplies.

Evening
Purchasing the sewing machines and materials today for our shoemaking in Uganda was not just another trip to Wal-Mart. It was quite scary to leave the safety of the public streets and walk into a market that felt more like a slum where people earned "turf" or the right to set up a small mat on a one lane alley and sell goods. It was total chaos. As you walked through the market, you were always brushing shoulders with someone. This very small street was bordered by 2 and 3 story buildings which accommodated many vendors who needed a permanent place to run their businesses. As we turned into one of these dark buildings, and raced upstairs, I saw nothing but the red shirt of my African friend in front of me. I only looked up when he finally stopped us in front of a table that held 15 or 20 sewing machines. Hugh and I only felt safe with the knowing that our African friends who had dealt in this market many times before were with us... Always one in back of us and one in front. We were safe. I believe that.

I won't go into details about the negotiations. George and Paul handled that for us. We had only the money that was on us. Our friends knew our limits. And we were able to purchase two industrial machines for what we feel was a great price... All things considered. Our quest for machines and materials took the entire day (Saturday) which was not something we anticipated. Our dealings in the market were an adventure I will not soon forget.

Thankfully, we were able to get the machines and their tables back to our village safely. During negotiations George arranged for a technician to come out to our village tomorrow to build the tables, install the machines and motors and then calibrate the machines. Once the machines are built, they cannot be easily moved. If moved, they may need to be recalibrated. Let's hope they will work in the place we have selected.

Time to rest. You are all loved deeply.
Patrick

In South Africa

2011-03-11T09:22:00.001-08:00

March 4
Our first night in S. Africa was filled with many surprises. Once we stepped off the the plane after the "8500 mile mega flight", we were greeted by several self proclaimed hosts... I really appreciated their entrepreneurial spirit. They were working for no one other than themselves. One fellow was kind enough to offer to just show us where our hotel shuttle could be found and then BAM! "$10 please." This was after walking with us for 3 minutes. Asher had warned us about those who might try to take advantage of us... It was obvious were were traveling through. Hugh and I felt that we should give him something. We scraped together $7 ... A handsome wage after "walking with us" for a couple minutes. While we were digging through our pockets for something to give him, an "associate" as he called himself appeared... And wondered where his $7 was. "I work with him" he said. "We work together". That's when "sweet" Asher took over... We now let her deal with the locals :0)

Our first meal in South Africa was an adventure... For me and Hugh anyway. We ate at The Spur and Hugh and I really wanted to "take it all in"... . So, we got right into the message and ordered Monkey Gland Rump for our entree. And washed it down with some "fuzzy water". Yum! No really, it was delicious! Hugh and I convinced our traveling companions to "at least" try the Rump... they finally did and they loved it. Don't let Asher or Holly tell you anything different. They ate Monkey Rump too and loved it! I sure hope we can find Monkey Rump somewhere in Asheville.

We didn't get finished with dinner until very late and were all anxious to get some real shut eye so we headed back to The Birchwood and realized as we were saying good night that we had no bottled water to hold us over until "whenever".

The "men's room" got plenty of sleep last night. We overslept only by a half hour... But we were sorry to hear that the "lady's room" had some technical difficulties with their alarm systems. The story I got was that Sweet Asher set her phone alarm to go off 2x per day to ensure that certain medication was taken as certain times throughout day. Well, I didn't attempt to do all of the clock math after I heard her story, but apparently alarm #2 went of at 2:00 am and Asher woke up and got herself ready for breakfast which we agreed would be 8:00am. Poor Asher is exhausted! We will be taking her phone away tonight. And will request a courtesy call from the front desk for the "lady's room".

Sorry for the long post my friends. I am writing you while on our 3rd leg of a long journey to Uganda that we began a couple days ago. As many of you can certainly relate, traveling can wipe you out. We are praying for all of you each day while knowing that you are praying for us. Our hearts remain filled with anticipation as we close in on our first mission destination in Uganda... 1hr 10mins til touchdown. May God's will be done both there, and in Zambia.

We covet your prayers,
Patrick

Chasing The Kingdom Dream!

2011-03-03T12:48:00.001-08:00

As I have shared my calling to serve in Africa with so many these past 5 months, I was so surprised to hear from those that simply do not support serving the "least of these" on the other side of the globe. Is it because they just haven't had the exposure or perspective to acknowledge some of the big problems that Africa and other developing and forgotten communities around the word face? Is it because it "is not" personal enough? Or is it because, with all the financial burdens and personal struggles we face at home (high class problems in many cases), we're not capable of hearing those whispers from God to give, to love, to serve those who have no hope.

A year ago, I had to get real honest with myself. In the midst of total financial ruin, I realized that I was still among the richest in the world. That's a fact. I was richer than most! Richard Sterns, author of The Hole in our Gospel (a must read by the way) tells his story and while reading it each night as if I were looking at a mirror rather than a book, the conviction simply destroyed me. It has broken my heart forever. My selfish pursuit of the "American Dream" had robbed God of the resources (time, talent, and $$$) that were intended to "love our neighbors" and "care for the widows and the fatherless"... Read the scriptures. It all over the place. How have we missed this? And get this... what I ultimately realized was that in chasing this lie we call "The American Dream", the biggest crime Was that, for all these years... I missed the opportunity to serve the one who I go around calling my Savior. The one I claimed to put my trust in. "...when you refused to help the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were refusing to help me." Matthew 24:45

Forgive me Jesus!
Patrick

Between Here and There

2011-03-03T12:44:00.000-08:00

It's amazing how many folks I hare shared the Sole Hope mission with since leaving Asheville this AM. Our new shirts with the mission statement on the back have people "tapping us on the shoulder" asking to hear more about what we're doing in Africa. Could it be that our journey "from here to there" is a bigger part of the mission than we may understand? Its rather funny... We can make "our" perfect plans, then we put our heads down and try to connect two dots.... Only to miss the bigger opportunities along the way... To take time to listen to someone and/or share of ourselves, and our own journeys. Isn't our journey what got us here... or there? People are starving for the opportunity to connect! They crave encouragement. Let me tell you... It's why I'm here on this plane right now. I have been admiring you who have made commitments to serve. You, the selfless. You, who are not letting the overwhelming statistics about poverty and disease get in the way of trying to change just one life at a time. You, who have modeled for me that to lay down your life for another is not a loss... But a blessing that far exceeds anything that this world can offer... A blessing that can only be given by our heavenly father. A blessing that can only be received by a changed heart.

Thinking of all of you!
Patrick

The Team's Last Meal in the States

2011-03-02T15:34:00.000-08:00

Off we go...

2011-03-02T15:07:00.000-08:00

Africa Awaits

2011-03-02T14:15:00.000-08:00

With our first leg of the journey to Africa behind us (a whopping 45 minutes from Charlotte to ATL), our Sole Hope team has successfully rid themselves of the pre-journey jitters. We are ready to serve! But a very long flight still stands between us and our final destination. The longest I have ever been on a plane is just short of 5 hours (The Left Coast).... And our leg to Johannesburg is well over 3 times that. I have warned my teammates that there may be some strange behaviors that I hope can be overlooked... Things like pacing, push-ups, sit-ups and even a light jog in the isles as I work to overcome the anxiety of being confined for longer than 3 hours... I can deal with it. I just want to get there safely and do the work we have been called to do. Amen.

After reading several of Kunda's letters, I realized that, although we are truly going to Africa on a "mission", it is the fact that we are actually traveling 8000 miles to serve our "neighbors" that have the widows who await our arrival overjoyed with gratitude. So many have asked me... "why are you going to Africa". It's simply this... If I (we) don't, then who will?

We look forward to sharing our trip with all of you. Please pray us through this mission, and know that you are loved.

In great anticipation,
Patrick

Less Than 24

2011-03-01T13:44:00.000-08:00

In less than 24 hours we will be leaving for Africa! I am so excited, humbled and ready! There has been a lot of preparations leading up to tomorrow. I really have very little words. My three weeks of packing and a three day trip to Raleigh three days before we leave (hmm, I'm seeing a pattern) has worn me out physically and mentally.

The final run of Sole Hope books will be finished today! I am so excited to see the children's faces as they get their books! These books were written in hopes that we can educate the children (and their guardians) about WHY they need to wear shoes. The book is done in a bright and playful way with the illustrations by the famous Michael Hayes!

You can purchase one of these books for $5. They are not on our online store yet because, well, our trip to Africa has taken front seat-but they will be soon! Or, you can send us an email letting us know how many books you want.

Check back while we are away-I hope to have blogs posted about our trip!

Sole Hope Belt & Buckle

2011-02-28T15:22:00.000-08:00

Lookie here! We have a new item in our STORE (click on the red button above). Fosterweld has created a belt and buckle combo especially for Sole Hope! These belts and buckles are top of the line. The buckles are handmade. Every Fosterweld buckle is MIG welded, with a hand-bent bracket/ loop that attaches to the belt, and a rounded post/ prong that slips perfectly into your belt hole. After getting them into just the shape you desire, we paint them with acrylic, distress them carefully, and spray 'em with an automotive-grade poly-cote that's as gorgeous as it is protective. All so you can pair your new buckle with the belt of your choice and rock some personally crafted fashion that puts mass-stamped mall stuff to shame.

Fosterweld is all about mixing business with leather. They ﬁnd that cows do their best work, giving them some primo hide. They thank them by cutting and coloring (and cracking, if that's how you roll) every belt by hand, giving each a ﬁnish that's completely unique and ready to keep your pants up in style.

All belts are SNAP belts and can be used with any buckle except MINI / BAILOUT. (For that you'll need the THIN belt. It's special.)

Pick your size based on your DENIM size: XS:26-29 S:28-31 M:30-33 L:32-35 XL: 34-37 XXL:36-39. So, for example, if you wear a 34x34 jean, you'd order an L.

Now go buy and change a life...(and I'm not just talking about yours when you get your super sweet belt)

To purchase one of these beauties go to our online STORE at the top of this blog.

(Check out the 40 second video below)

Sole Hope Shoe Workshop

2011-02-28T15:18:00.001-08:00

This weekend Sole Hope led a 2-day workshop in Raleigh, NC for the people at MBC. There was a great turnout of people who were eager to hear about Sole Hope and get involved. MBC will be continually making shoes for Sole Hope to help clothe the feet of orphans around the world. Check out the video from the weekend.

West to East

2011-02-14T18:02:00.000-08:00

The word is spreading! The mission and vision of Sole Hope is infiltrating the lives of those with plenty (IE, Americans) and is shedding light on how tragic it is for medical reasons to not be able to wear shoes.

A couple days ago we received a box from Washington State...over 60 pairs of shoe uppers ready for us to take to Africa in 16 days. Shoe cutting parites have been taking place all over the United States and the results are GREAT!

This week our board chair, Hilary Black went to south Florida to teach others about Sole Hope! This is what she had to say,

"I did shoe cutting with 1st through 8th graders (1-3rd did painting on canvas to be made into shoes) yesterday and today with the 6th - 8th graders and tomorrow I will be at the school again making more. On Wednesday the 6th - College kids will be making shoes too! All of the kids watched the video that inspired us about jiggers and it was pretty amazing seeing their reactions...and it really made an impression on many of them. The shoes are super spunky with an assortment of fabrics! Here are some pictures.

Also in April there will be a Love Wins festival and the high school wants to set up a Sole Hope booth that will be showing the video and allowing people to sit down and make a pair of shoes along with selling t-shirts."

Since in previous posts I told you I would help you get to know our board of directors, (just not all at one time!) this seems like a good time to introduce you to Hilary. She is an amazing woman with a fun-loving personality. She has a 3 year old daughter and is married to a pretty cool guy who she helps with his PR business. She was the district manager for Starbucks for over 10 years and is loaded with business savvy and go get 'em! All that said, she is just awesome and so fun to work with and since embracing Sole Hope together (thus spending mass amounts of time in each others lives) I am honored to call her my friend.

Anyway, isn't that awesome! Kids are getting involved, adults are getting involved and TOGETHER we will impact the lives of thousands through a simple pair of shoes! If you would like to host your own shoe cutting party at a school, home, church or somewhere more creative send us an email! solehopeafrica@gmail.com

We are counting down the days until we leave, and in doing that have made some large strides in the direction we are heading. Our book is almost ready! And it looks AMAZING if I do say so myself. It will not be fancy...we have chosen to take donations and put shoes on kids feet instead of making a fancy book! So, we have to thank Printville who has been SO gracious in helping us with this endeavor, our illustrator Michael Hayes and the trusty sewing machine I will be using to bind our first 200 books myself. (PS-if you want to help and live in the Asheville Area let me know!)

Also, (SO excited about this!) Hugh Wright (above) will be joining us on this trip. Life has just aligned to open the doors for him to be able to go to Africa with us! Two weeks ago this would have been impossible...but wait, ALL things are possible with God. He has opened the doors for Hugh to go...16 days away from travel. For those of you that have been following from the beginning, do you remember how soon my first trip was pulled together for Africa?! QUICKLY, because when it is supposed to happen, it will happen. Not in our time, but in HIS.

Trip Update 19 Days

2011-02-11T13:13:00.000-08:00

Sewing Class for Africa

2011-02-11T11:26:00.000-08:00

Today Holly and Patrick came over to learn to make shoes...why? Because they will be helping me teach women in Africa in 19 days! I'm showing them how "easy" it is.

Holly and Patrick cutting out their shoes...we ended up getting Patrick bigger scissors when his thumb turned blue. :) I'm just trying to prepare them for Africa...its all about perspective as Patrick says.

Patrick sewing for the first time ever, and he did great!!!

And poor Holly's machine broke, like usual and so she had to sew her shoes by hand. It again was a good time to practice for when we are in Africa and the machines break...then what?! Well, then you sew it by hand!

Easy as pie!

(of course tomorrow I will sew the upper to the sole)

Shoe Making

2011-02-10T15:49:00.000-08:00

I have had several people ask about getting a job with Sole Hope making shoes. Sole Hope wants to not only teach a trade to those needing jobs in Africa, but we want to make a difference in our home town, Asheville, NC. The ideal person for this job would be someone who has struggled in the past but has made changes in their life and is trying to start over. This person needs to be reliable, a hard worker and have a good attitude. After all, you will be making a difference while making shoes. The shoes made here in Asheville will be sold in Asheville with half of the proceeds going to build up Sole Hope in Zambia and Uganda by empowering more women to make shoes, and then the shoes going to orphans at no cost.

If this sounds like something you would like to be a part of register for the 5 week Elevate shoe making class by going to: www.elevatelifeandart.com
OR
If you just want to learn how to make shoes for whatever reason, you too should go sign up! For more details go to: www.elevatelifeandart.com

If you have questions please email us at solehopeafrica@gmail.com

The Elevate classes will be two hour classes for five weeks. They will take place at 34 S. Lexington St. in downtown Asheville. Classes are $5 a class. If you cannot afford that please let us know by sending us an email and we would be glad to waive the fee for those that are interested in working for Sole Hope at some point. You do not need to have any sewing experience. We will provide the machines and all the materials.

I hope you can join me for these fun classes! Go sign up by going to the link above-class size is limited.

Class description:

Shoe Making • Asher Collie
Thursday 3:45-5:35 | Class begins March 24th
This shoe making class is for the person who has no to some shoe making experience. The vision for this class was birthed through Sole Hope, a local non profit that provides shoes for those in need. (www.solehope.com) The purpose of this class will be to learn the basics in shoe making, but more importantly, how to make a very simple shoe in a child’s size that will be durable and comfortable. By the end of this class you will be able to make a shoe from a pattern, sew it together and use a regular and industrial sewing machine. If you would like to make a pair of shoes to keep please bring your own materials. (please let us know before the first class so we can let you know what materials to bring) If you do not bring your own materials we will provide everything, but we ask that your shoes be donated to an orphan through Sole Hope.

Hope Is Coming

2011-02-01T14:18:00.000-08:00

Whenever the posts on this blog are spread out...you must know something is going on! We have a lot of somethings going on with Sole Hope right now. We have been swamped with shoe cutting parties (contact us through www.solehope.com if you want more info) and planning our trip to Zambia and Uganda...yep, you read that right, we are now going to Uganda in March also!!! We have a three day trip that will be filled with speaking and teaching coming up for myself and Beth Gaffney (a board member) at the end of February and between now and then I must teach several more people here in the US how to make shoes, get our industrial sewing machine fixed, make lesson plans for the Elevate School of Life and Art classes on shoe making I will be teaching and....I'll save the rest for some other time. :) Oh! And notice our new Sole Hope "button" on the right! You can now share Sole Hope with your blog readers...just copy and paste the code below the button! We have lots of supplies to buy for our trip to Africa in March. Topping the list is thread, needles and money for fabric we will buy in country. If you feel led to donate to any of those items we would be SO thankful!

Every now and then I go back and read the old Sole Hope blog. There has been so much growth in Sole Hope this past year. One previous post that reminded me of things I hoped I'd never forget was the following:

The story of his feet: The little boy whose feet are pictured above have walked many miles. He heard of the white people who had come to a village near his. Today he is hoping we have brought something to pass out. Maybe clothes, food or…a pair of shoes. You see, he walked six miles each way to get to us…through trash, over rocks, through thorn bushes and crumbled cement. This child patiently stood next to me, watching intently my every move. His brow was furrowed for the first little while and his face sullen. We could not speak to one another-he did not know my language and I did not know his. I bent down to take a picture of his feet and he slowly looked away. He approached me after some time had passed and asked in very broken English with a whisper in his voice, “Madam, may I have a pair of shoes?” My heart broke. I wished he knew why I was there, because I was working on getting them ALL a pair of shoes. I tried to explain to him that when I came back I’d have a pair of shoes but for the moment I had nothing, except a hug and a smile and a song. I bent down and looked in his big brown eyes. I spoke some words in English to bring him hope. He did not understand, so I sang him a song. He slowly lifted his head and gave me a smile...and soon I'll return and give him a pair of shoes. My heart is burdened until I can bring him and the others like him shoes.

We cannot bring them the supplies to make shoes until we financially have enough money to buy those supplies.

Did you know that with that handy little button to the right labeled “Donate” you can make a quick donation to our shoe project? You can make a one time donation or a reoccurring donation. Once you do that, this is your project too. I know everyone can’t take off time from their families, work and daily commitments, and we understand that. So, to make things a little easier than flying to Africa with us we want to humbly ask for a donation for these sweet little children that need shoes on their feet SO badly! Will you give, even a small amount today?

-Asher Collie

Beautiful Walls

2011-01-21T20:18:00.000-08:00

Tonight we graced the walls of Healing Sensations in Asheville, NC with our Africa art. Owner and "master soother" (that's my name for her, she practices all sorts of healing therapy that will leave you feeling like you've entered heaven and come home again) and counselor Laura Haas with Red Thread Counseling were so welcoming and excited to get my art on their walls. I would highly recommend these ladies services if you live in or around Asheville! Stop by and take a look at our art.

Stone Ridge Business Park

at 201 Stone Ridge Blvd

Asheville, NC 28804

Laura and Donna...two sweet ladies with a heart for Africa. Laura was even born in Ethiopia, Africa!!

A Kids Thoughts on the Sole Hope shoe

2011-01-19T22:09:00.000-08:00

The Good In Everything

2011-01-11T12:44:00.000-08:00

It is a constant outlook on life of mine to try to find the good in everything. Sometimes this is hard, other times it is obvious but at no time, if I've really looked, is the potential for good not there. Sole Hope is very close to my heart. It is a journey that started personally but it can't stay that way. I want Sole Hope to touch lives in Asheville, Africa and other places in impoverished and forgotten communities around the world. I had the privilege of being asked to do a short interview on the local news this past week which aired yesterday. Emails flooded our inbox after it aired from people asking how they could get involved and if they could get jobs making shoes with Sole Hope! This is what Asheville needs and this is what Africa needs. We will start here and work forward with hopes that God will do immeasurably more than we've ever asked or dreamed.

I don't know how many of you have followed our blog since the beginning, but if you have you'll know that there have been road blocks and hurdles we have had to jump and sometimes crawl over. It is kind of interesting for me to watch and see who jumps on the bandwagon, how long they stay, and what their reactions are when we feel like all the walls are falling in.

One of the biggest blessings this year has been the board of directors that has come together to support, encourage and move Sole Hope forward in 2011. Since I have not had the pleasure of doing this yet, I want to introduce you to them! I won't go into long explanations of each person, because that could take all day since there is so much to each person I could tell you about...maybe later. But for now I will at least put a name with a face. While I was posting these below I was just thinking about all the wonderful things I could say about each person. Each one has a different set of skills, life and work experience and brings a unique angle to Sole Hope.

Hilary Sias-Board Chair

Patrick Scully- Vice Chair

Alyssa Scully- Committee Chair

Andrew Eremic'- Treasurer

Holly Jones- Board Member

Beth Gaffney- Board Member

Kyle Jones- Board Member and his wife Lorraine Jones- Committee Member

And last but not least, Pam Lee who is a board member...and for the life of me could not find a picture of her! She stays undercover. :)

And then myself, Asher Collie, Executive Board Chair...you know what I look like. (if you don't, it's OK, you're really not missing anything. ;))

We are still in need of a secretary if that is something you feel called to do and you live in the Asheville area. You can email us at solehopeafrica@gmail.com for more info.

Thank you to those of you who stand by Sole Hope and continue to spread the word about us! You can find us on Facebook or Twitter. Keep coming back to this blog because I have many update for the coming months. Our trip to Africa in March, (with myself, Holly and Patrick-above-) a shoe class and seminar in Raleigh, NC at the end of February, Elevate classes on shoe making (for those of you wanting to get a job making shoes with Sole Hope...or just want to learn how to make shoes), a vamp cutting party (sounds Halloween-y doesn't it?-it's not!), our book will be coming out soon and sooo much more.

New Shoes

2011-01-07T16:25:00.000-08:00

New shoes. Have you ever wondered how often a child in a third-world country has heard those two words? For most of them, never. I love that Sole Hope gets the opportunity to give hundreds of children the opportunity to have a pair of new shoes. These shoes are not like Nike, Crocs, Stride Rite or some other brand you might find in your local chain store. These shoes are 100% hand made and sewn with lots and lots of LOVE! These shoes are very comfortable, ready for lots of running and playing in the dirt. The wonderful thing about these shoes is that once one child outgrows their shoe, if the upper is worn out one of the Sole Hope shoe makers can simply take the upper off, sew a new one and reattach it to the sole! The beautiful thing about this process is it saves money, resources and time!

The Sole Hope shoes seem to always be evolving and becoming better and that is so exciting! We've made some adjustments you can't really see, but make the shoe so much more comfortable and wearable!

There are a couple more cosmetic changes I would like to make in the near future, but I have word from a picky five year old that these shoes are SUPER comfortable!!!

It's About Time!

2010-12-20T18:29:00.000-08:00

We finally posted a button so you can now make secure monthly donations online. We've taken the work out of it...all you have to do is decide how much you want to donate per month. The donation amounts range from $10-$100. Click on the "subscribe" button on the right side of this blog. Your donation makes a HUGE difference in the life of a child!

And, just to let you know, you can also make a donation at the L.O.F.T downtown Asheville and Starbucks in western North Carolina and Greenville, SC until the end of December.

Merry Christmas from the Sole Hope team!!

Season Update

2010-12-13T08:52:00.000-08:00

First, my sincerest apologies to those who frequent our blog and this past month have been left with little to no posts! 'Tis the season and even though I've slowed down considerably this year from other years, the Christmas season mixed with keeping Sole Hope productive proves to equal one combination-busy!

On December 5th we had our first art show. It was an amazingly fun time with meeting new friends, greeting old ones and talking about the beautiful children that will benefit from Sole Hope. Art pieces were sold to raise money for Sole Hope and several people also went home with hand silk screened prints by James Gaffney and Sole Hope t-shirts! We had live music and yummy food donated by local restaurants and Sole Hope supporters.

December Trip Update
Because of financial details the Sole Hope team will not be going to Zambia in December but will instead go in March. Our team was sad at first but had to quickly remember that we are not doing this in our timing, but in God's-and he has the perfect time for us to be there! Going in March will hopefully provide for additional board members to go and will also give us more time to prepare for the business side of things. Some of the Wiphan board members will still be traveling in December so we are happy we can send them with some questions they can get answered for Sole Hope. It is hard to communicate with those on the other side of the world who do not have Internet, so this will be a welcomed benefit of going after the Wiphan December trip!

In other news, Sole Hope has donation cards that are printed and ready to send out! This card is designed to send to someone you make a donation on behalf of. How does it work?

1. You make a donation of $20 or more in someones name for Christmas, birthday or any other occasion.

2. We send them a card saying a donation has been given in their name to Sole Hope. It talks about what Sole Hope is and shows a picture of the feet you will be helping put shoes on!

That simple! So how do you order? Click on the donation button on the side of this blog and make sure you type "DONATION CARDS" in the notes section! I will then contact you to get details.

I hope all of you are having a wonderful Christmas season!
Until next time~

Art Show

2010-11-27T21:06:00.000-08:00

You are invited to an art show to benefit Sole Hope

Black Friday Coffee

2010-11-26T10:31:00.000-08:00

I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving! Thank you to all of our Sole Hope supporters for donating, spreading the word about Sole Hope and encouraging those of us who are working to get shoes on the feet of orphans in need. We could not do this without you and are SO grateful!

If you want to buy the best tasting Christmas gift today, forget the malls and traffic and go to our fair trade coffee store. $5 of every bag goes to Sole Hope. Purchase your coffee before midnight today and get a free mug with every bag you buy!

Sole Cutting Party & UPDATE

2010-11-01T20:37:00.000-07:00

I am so sorry I have been slacking in keeping all of our supporters updated! It is definitely not because nothing is going on with Sole Hope. Quite the contrary, there is SO much going on! Last Saturday I had the opportunity to go to the house of a Sole Hope supporter, and now new friend. She invited myself and over 20 people over for me to share Sole Hope with. I first shared with a group of young girls the vision and passion behind Sole Hope. Then I showed them how to cut out a pair of shoes. Next we did that with a group of high schoolers and between the two groups, (plus the moms) we cut out a LOT of shoe uppers! And, I got to spread the word about Sole Hope.

(Group 1)

Our shoe sewing time is now down to 2-3 hours. I made a pair a few days ago in a couple of hours and it was FUN! I really enjoyed it! We have shoes sized from a toddler five up to a children's five. As we grow and get more experience we will add shoe sizes. I sent Sole Hope's first pair of shoes to Kenya today. They will go to a special girl who some missionary's from Asheville have taken under their wing.

There is SO much going on behind the scenes right now with Sole Hope. We are getting all of the technical stuff together that you need to have straight to run a non-profit. We have a board of directors that are just amazing. They are so encouraging and come from all walks of life with different background experience.

As far as the December trip, there are lots of details being worked on. The team did not have the money to buy tickets when the prices were low (airfare) and prices have now doubled, and so it looks like we might not have the money-thus we will have to wait until March. This is a hard thing for me to digest for several reasons. None of my reasons are bigger than doing this in God's timing though. I firmly believe that He will get us to Ndola in HIS perfect timing, not mine. I am not at all saying the trip for December is off, it might be a possibility that it is on hold until March. We are all waiting on pens and needles to find out when we will be going.

Sorry this blog is so "business". I felt so bad that I had not written an update! Things have just been changing so rapidly, for the better. Thank you for walking this journey with us! And, if you are not a follower of this blog yet, join us. It takes 60 seconds to add yourself...just go to the right side of this blog and do so now.

What Is Sole Hope?

2010-10-18T19:44:00.000-07:00

What is Sole Hope and how can you be involved?

Shoe Making Day

2010-10-07T17:20:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was shoe making day. It was the long awaited day when the girls going on the Sole Hope December trip were to learning how to make Sole Hope shoes so we can teach the women of Ndola. Beth Gaffney came over to help us accomplish this! We started our session at 1:30, and Holly and myself worked until 2:30AM!! We were not making shoes the entire time, but most of it. And when I say making shoes, I mean only one pair. It is hard work-do not be fooled! I will admit, doubt and fear are creeping in. Can the women do this? Will this be too hard? Will they WANT to do this once they experience what its like? Will we be able to get the right tools to Ndola? Will they have the right tires?

Part of my team and I were talking about "plan B" last night, and the thing I feel so strong in my heart is that the only part of "plan B" addresses the children's feet, a huge part. But, I do not want to over look the widows-and I know this trade will benefit them in great ways. They will be able to be paid for shoe making and more more of a profit than they will with any of the other trades they are learning!
This is an exciting time. This is a scary time! And when all the heaviness of the project weighs on me I must remember, this is NOT my project, I am only a vessel to carry out a greater plan. Sometimes I don't even know what that plan is, but I want to be faithful even when it feels like the ground is getting shaky!

Above: Holly and I sewing at about 8pm. We were trying to figure out why her machine kept messing up! :)

Cleats For Wiphan

2010-10-04T14:32:00.000-07:00

There has been something on my mind, especially as I take my daughter to soccer practice every Saturday. She plays for ABYSA and there are over 2,000 children playing in her league!

(Above: Here in America)

All of these are wearing cleats, shin guards (in fact, you are not allowed to play without them), and matching uniforms. I LOVE soccer and always have. I played up until last year and for various reasons don't know if I will ever play on a team again. So, it was no surprise that as I visited the Wiphan school in Ndola, Zambia this past May, I heard the school team was going to have a soccer game I was BEYOND excited! As we got to the dirt field the Wiphan kids proudly sported their uniforms that were donated to them last year. They are property of the school so they come to the game, put them on, and before they go home they return them to the coach. The fast paced game led to extremely hard kicks and quick maneuvers with their feet. I was more than amazed becuase not only were they not playing without shin guards, but they had on no cleats! I cannot even imagine playing on the ground they were playing on, and NOT having cleats!!!

At first one could rationalize, well, they are used to it-their feet are calloused...and so on. I inquired about this no cleats situation with the widow who started Wiphan...she said the kids would love to have cleats and it is to their disadvantage when they play a private school. The private schools have cleats and shin guards and the Wiphan team is very intimidated for several reasons when playing them.

I know that soccer cleats are not number one priority, but it is something that I want to ask others who love soccer to just donate a few dollars to. We need $1,000 to buy cleats over there. It would be the same price to buy cleats in America as it is there, and we would like to support their economy-not to mention, it would be great if we could get them cleats that fit!

If this is something that stirs your heart as it does mine, please donate a little something on the side of this blog. Together we can help make their favorite past time a little more fun, and safe! Please share this with any other soccer lovers you might know. :)