Suburbanista Naperville: WAR Chest Boutique - Giving a Voice to Vulnerable Women

Readers,

I challenge you to step outside of your current focus. Put down the pencil, close the unnecessary internet tabs, and silence your phone. Allow yourself to fully embrace this knowledge and dedicate these next few moments to those who currently are unable to achieve what you have - unable to freely read, speak, listen, and learn... struggling to fight for their lives.

Allow me to introduce to you the following facts. These facts have been collected from national governmental agencies and are sadly astonishing.... however, we can help.

"114 to 200 million women are 'demographically missing' due to infanticide, dowry deaths, domestic violence, and all manner of risk." - UN Secretary General

"800,000 people a year are trafficked against their will. 50% are children. 70% of women are sold into sexual slavery, chained to beds of horror." - US State Department

"The New Slavery...human trafficking, is the fastest growing segment of organized crime. 100,000 are trafficked INSIDE AMERICA." - FBI

Women At Risk International (WAR) gives voice to the silenced cries of these women. By providing the opportunity for creative outlet, our local boutique sells beautiful handmade workings by vulnerable women. From jewelry, accessories, and clothing to shelves lined with autobiographies - WAR Chest Boutique shares the story of each individual behind their art. Who are these women, you ask?

"They are orphans, widows, and the destitute who are targeted by traffickers," explains Ashley Pitariu, Manager of WAR Chest Boutique in Downtown Naperville. "These women are not asking for a hand out. They are asking for a hand up," she adds.

When you purchase from WAR Chest, you are supporting the nonprofit organization that establishes to place circles of protection around women at risk. Creating safe places for women and children whom are rescued from human trafficking/sexual slavery and abuse helps to provide a voice to their silenced cries.

How can you participate? Below I have listed local upcoming events to help give hope and protection to women at risk. You may also visit the Women At Risk International website for nationwide opportunities at www.warinternational.org.

Upcoming Naperville Events:

Friday, November 25, 2011
Volunteers needed for Downtown Naperville parade. WAR Chest Boutique is asking women to dress to represent heritages around the world, carrying signs that say "Rescued at (age)" and lighted flowers and candles.

Saturday, November 26, 2011
Christmas Carolers will shed light on WAR by choir singing in Downtown Naperville's WAR Chest Boutique. Come in to enjoy the beautiful sounds of the holiday season, savory appetizers, and appreciation of WAR artwork.

To participate or for more information, please contact Ashley Pitariu, Store Manager.
630.904.9200

2011 Winter Photo Shoot & Their Stories
Photography by Summer Jean Photography

Featuring "Rhoda's Roses", these flowers have been crocheted by an American trafficking survivor. Each one of these decorative roses is a testimony to Rhoda and her flourishing ministry, as she speaks out against human trafficking, reaches out to vulnerable teens, sings at benefit concerts, and coaches other suffering women.

Made in our Indian Safehouse, women who have been rescued from trafficking situations create these intricate silver necklaces in order to learn a job skill. The safehouse pays them a fair wage of what a college graduate in their country earns, they earn their GED, are provided with childcare, healthcare and counseling. Wear them with dignity knowing that you helped to lift a woman back to a life of worth.