I’m at it AGAIN!
Be You Be United Campaign #3
I’m doing it again only this time I’ve created EVERY FLAG of the WORLD! What an undertaking! It took so many hours of graphic design work and once I had them all completed I had to design the collage — which took many more hours.
Why am I doing this?
In 2016, Marinette opened her print + design shop in the same space her mother ran her corner store for 35 years located in the Black Rock section of Buffalo, NY,
This passport photo was taken in Lebanon in the early 1970’s. Marinette’s mother is holding her and they are surrounded by Marinette’s siblings.
I was born in Lebanon and immigrated to the states in the early 70’s before my first birthday. Growing up, I watched my family struggle to communicate and then as I got older, I heard the stories of the early days. We didn’t have anything; no beds, no furniture, no dishes, no utensils, no towels, honestly, next to nothing. What we did have were 2 adults trying to care for and provide for a family of 6 while not being able to speak the language. For more about my background click here.
Thankfully, this looks very different for the refugees and immigrants of today. They are helped in so many vital ways by many not-for-profits, I’m truly in awe. All this is made possible through the generous donations of the community.
I want to give back to these organizations by using my time, talents, and treasures. This is the inspiration behind Be You Be United. I want to bless those that bless so many in need.
The latest and greatest!
My latest design has 195 national flags and ethnic communities. Every flag of the world is on there so that EVERYONE is represented! I’m thrilled to announce that my next fundraiser is LIVE. BYBU Campaign #3 will raise money for the International Institute of Buffalo. 20% of all proceeds will go directly to them. This was taken from their website to show how they assist our newest neighbors:
“The Institute offers refugee resettlement and employment programs; offers translation and interpretation services to break down barriers; presents global education programs for students, adults and businesses; and hosts international visitors. On an average day, dozens are welcomed into our building. Some have newly arrived in America and are beginning to learn English. Some come to acquire job skills, become interpreters, or receive interpreting and translation assistance. Others come to learn how to support WNY’s growing diversity.”
Please join me in raising money for this great organization. Help me spread the message of celebrating our diversity while also remembering to be united. Click here for the link to the online store. Hurry, it closes on Monday, Nov 4th at midnight! Please share to help make this the best BYBU fundraiser yet!