November Newsletter: Recap of the "Refugees at Home" Trimester

a. Recap: Common Threads
b. Volunteer Appreciation Bowling Night
c. 12/11 Core Meeting @ 7PM

As Vox brings to a conclusion its "Refugees at Home" Trimester, we take a look back at some of the highlights of the memorable and successful Common Threads series with The Community Cloth!

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a. RECAP: COMMON THREADS

If you could choose one word to describe the Common Threads series what would it be? Interactive...empowering...meaningful? The truth is no amount of words could truly capture the experience achieved by working together with The Community Cloth throughout the Common Threads series.

During Style Scope, on September 15, Vox had a blast with the refugee artisans on an educational field trip to Francesca’s Collections (6514 Woodway, Houston, TX). Thanks to the boutique’s wonderful staff of D'Naya, Thuy and Tatiana, we were all able to learn together with the refugee artisans about the latest fashion trends and styles. While we all learned a little something about hot colors for the fall like purple and hunter green, beautiful fabrics like crochet and lace, and got some informative tips about jewelry and knit accessories, we also had a blast browsing the store and getting acquainted with the artisan women.

For the Design Workshop on October 20, Vox welcomed the artisan women for an instructional wrap-bracelet workshop, led by Julie Tien. Each attendee at the event purchased a bracelet kit, proceeds of which went towards the sponsorship of an artisan from The Community Cloth. The workshop gave participants a refreshing new view of The Community Cloth’s mission, a new skill set and a brand new wrap bracelet.

The Interwoven Mixer on November 3, was the grand finale event held at 55 Bar & Restaurant in Rice Village. With over 130 people in attendance on a rainy day, the attendees enjoyed delicious food, a"traditional meets modern" fashion show sponsored by Langford Market, and cultural dance performances by the Refugee Community Empowerment Association. Furthermore, the audience had the opportunity to purchase handmade products from the bazaar...great gifts for the holidays! This event highlighted the growth of friendships built throughout the trimester. Through these events, our hope was to create a bridge that allowed both the audience and the artisans to connect and learn from each other. Thank you for your support!

b. VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION BOWLING NIGHT

What an amazing trimester! Common Threads was a HUGE success and it couldn't have happened without our amazing, hard-working, compassionate, and dedicated volunteers! In appreciation, Vox went out for a bowling night! A friendly wager was put on the two rounds. Round 1: 25 push-ups. Round 2: 50 sit-ups. Thanks for being great sports, all!

c. 12/11 CORE TEAM MEETING

We are seeking passionate people such as yourselves to spread the word and take part in our next Core Team Meeting at the Vox Culture Warehouse, on Tuesday, 12/11 @ 7:00 PM. A home-cooked 5-star meal by your favorite Vox Team will be served during the meeting!

There has been enormous momentum driving Vox over this past year, and it is all thanks to those of you who have been volunteering and coming out to our Core Meetings to help shape and be the driving force behind Vox’s events. Help shape 2013! This is an amazing time to be a part of Vox, and your input and participation can help make a difference in this city. Be a catalyst to connect our Houston community to social causes in creative ways! Email Viktor.Kopic@voxculture.org for details and to RSVP.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!!