When I started "Inspiring Hands", the vision was simple. I wanted to find a way to support the friends I had made in Dominican Republic. These were strong, beautiful, talented women who seemed to be 'stuck' in their roles as wives and mothers. The bracelet project was my small way to help them earn money and a great way to intentionally spend time with them and learn more about their lives - so different from my own.
My mentors gave me guidance to structure my project and by 2018, we became a full-fledged 501c3 nonprofit. My friends and family stood by me at every event, some of them even traveling with me to DR to see the work in action. My broader community of partners supported the work year after year. When COVID hit and we took a break, we pivoted to support more locally. People really showed up for the cause and we did some great things for Central Florida families. For all of this, I am beyond grateful. I am humbled that so many people believed in my little vision. I am inspired by the people we have served through this organization. After 11 years of passion-driven work, I am struggling to shut this down but I am motivated by what we can accomplish...when the time is right.
I realize that what I was experiencing in DR back in 2013 is happening all around the world. Women's economic disparity is a global issue with many layers to uncover and solutions yet to be seen. There are some political powerhouses fighting for equality and countless organizations doing good work in this field.
I hope one day to be part of the global fight for the rights of women and for the strength of families, especially in our communities of color.
For now, the fight is closer to home.
I am committed
to continuing to be a fully present mom
to becoming a dependable friend
to supporting the people in my circle who need me
to strengthening bonds with my family
to creating a financial legacy my children can count on
to developing myself into the woman I have always wanted to be.
It took a lot of deep reflection and prayer, countless conversations with loved ones and a whole lot of tears to get to this decision but I know it is the right thing to do. I encourage anyone who is struggling with where they are in life to take the time to figure out what needs to change. Listen to your intuition. Don't fight for something that no longer serves a true purpose. Sometimes holding on to one thing keeps you from seeing something better.
It has been one of my greatest accomplishments to serve as founder and Executive Director of Inspiring Hands. I look forward to serving my community in a new, better way in the future.
Thank you,
Vanessa Hornedo
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