ABOUT US
Our Mission
Handmade for Change empowers people to build economic independence through creativity, skill-building, and community. We focus on connecting vulnerable individuals, e.g. unemployed, under-employed, immigrants, recovering addicts, disabled, with the tools and training they need to turn handmade crafts into reliable sources of income.
Our Vision
A world where anyone — regardless of circumstance — can use their hands and creativity to shape a better future for themselves, their family, and their communities.
Our Story
Handmade for Change began with a simple belief: handmade products have the power to change lives.
Our founder, Dandy Manning, discovered this truth firsthand after losing her job in January 2025. With more than 20 years of experience in humanitarian work — most recently as a contractor for the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) — she was suddenly faced with uncertainty when the agency unexpectedly shut down.
Fortunately, Dandy’s sewing skills became a lifeline. She had sewn to earn income to support her personal charity-giving ventures, but now faced with navigating financial pressures, including supporting a daughter in college, she began to rely more on selling handmade goods to earn extra income. As customers requested more products, she realized there was strong demand for unique, handmade, purpose-driven items — and even more potential to empower others through that same skill.
From that moment, Handmade for Change was born — a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping others turn creativity into economic independence.
Our mission evolved from simply selling handmade goods to training and supporting individuals — including immigrants, the unemployed, people with disabilities and those in recovery — to build sustainable income-generating revenue.
We offer practical, skill-based training such as:
- Hands-on workshops in sewing, jewelry-making, and candle-crafting
- Guidance in product design, quality, and customer service
- Lessons on selling online (Etsy, Faire, websites) and in local markets
- English language and financial literacy classes
- Basic photography and social media marketing for artisans
In 2026, Handmade for Change will launch its first pilot training programs, providing the tools, mentorship, and confidence individuals need to achieve self-reliance and pride in their work.
Because when creativity meets opportunity, handmade truly becomes a force for change.
What We’re Building
We’re currently developing partnerships, seeking funding, and gathering supplies to launch our first sessions — with every donation and purchase helping make it possible.
Our Impact (What’s Next)
In 2026, Handmade for Change plans to begin its first pilot training sessions, creating opportunities for participants to:
- Learn practical craft skills
- Earn supplemental income
- Build confidence and community connections
By supporting Handmade for Change today, you’re helping lay the foundation for sustainable, creative livelihoods tomorrow.
OUR BOARD
Dandy Manning, Founder & CEO — With more than 20 years of experience working in non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and nonprofits, she brings a wealth of multicultural, nonprofit management expertise and business savvy. Having lived in the Republic of Georgia, Turkey, Jordan, South Africa, and Zambia, she has been inspired by the diverse cultures and textiles she has encountered. She now channels that passion into Handmade for Change, sharing her love of fabric with others by teaching textile arts and helping participants transform creativity into meaningful skills and sustainable opportunities.
Mohammad Sarhan, Board Member —Business strategist of Arabic heritage with expertise in social media and marketing; known for his curiosity and knack for figuring out how things work, he supports participants in entrepreneurship and turning creative ideas into sustainable business opportunities.
Aleyna Karaca, Board Member — NYC-based playwright, ESL instructor and creative arts mentor; guides participants in language learning and creative expression.
Helen Bradley, Board Member — Textile and traditional arts coach; provides hands-on skills training and mentorship.