Annual Appeal 2022
To our network of supporters,
Today, Creamos kicks off our first season of giving as an independent nonprofit organization. Earlier this year, we received confirmation of our 501(c)(3) status, formalizing the organization’s amiable separation from Safe Passage and catalyzing the next phase of Creamos’ development. Our path towards independence hasn’t been linear, but through the solidarity of a network of committed donors combined with fourteen years of leveraging community wisdom, we have arrived at this moment.
Thanks to the generosity of loyal supporters, Creamos was able to launch its Workforce Development Department last year, which has provided professional training for 227 participants since its establishment, and supported over 40 in securing formal employment at places like Starbucks, Microsoft and Pacifiko. Graduates of our intensive training courses are becoming baristas, computer programmers, customer service agents and professional seamstresses, leaving behind dangerous work for good.
This shift would not be possible without the trust that has been placed in us by our participants. Change brings its own set of challenges, and despite its immense risk, the garbage dump has been a familiar source of income for so many for so long. Envisioning a future beyond what you’ve seen within your own community is daunting, and it takes courage to choose an unknown path.
Despite the odds, Creamos participant Evelyn took the leap. Now working as a full time barista, she recently told us:
“My life has changed a lot - before I was very shy, so this job has really helped me become more outgoing and to express myself, which I couldn’t do before. This program is really important for our community because it opens doors.”
Evelyn is just one of many skilled but overlooked women poised to transform her reality. I wholeheartedly believe that together, we can expand access to dignified work for hundreds more.
As we embark on this new chapter, I’m reminded of how fortunate Creamos is that you continue to choose us within a world full of admirable organizations. I am honored to be a part of the Creamos community that will work relentlessly to turn your gift into opportunities.
Warmest wishes this holiday season,
Hannah Sklar
P.S. There are many ways to easily magnify your contribution, including joining a Creamos Impact Circle, becoming a recurring donor, or checking if your match your donation. Much of our ability to map out long-term goals is determined by the consistency derived from this form of sustained support, and ultimately enables us to look ahead with even bigger ideas for the future!