volunteer organization

© Enchanted Makeovers

Social entrepreneur Terry Grahl has had the great idea to turn her interior decorating business « Enchanted Cottage » into the non-profit organization « Enchanted Makeovers » while volunteering for a shelter makeover. 

As an award winning interior decorator Terry’s decision to give up her successful decorating business isn’t obvious. So, how did it all start? With a depressing image of a polka dot pillow on a stained mattress on one of the typical « before picture » for her first shelter makeover volunteer project!
Seeing the positive impact of her work made Terry suddenly realize that she found her true calling and she felt the need to do more. Initially, Terry kept her paying assignments but soon felt the desire to focus full-time on the charitable work at the shelters. This is why in January 2009 her business was changed into her non-profit Enchanted Makeovers.

Enchanted Makeovers’s mission is to find volunteers and donors to help Terry realize and carry out her vision of transforming shelters into places of peace and possibilities. A place for women and children that often lack faith and self-confidence to receive refuge, solace and hope. Terry is eager to create a colorful, peaceful and cozy environment at the shelters, an environment to feel at ease and empowered. In order to demonstrate that people care Terry accepts either handmade or new goods for her projects.

But how does she do it? It all starts like in a usual interior decorating project with the «before pictures » followed by the visualization of the makeover. Based on her ideas for the project, she develops a wish list, which she publishes on her website. Once sponsors and donors are found, the project is realized with the help of volunteers.

There are numerous ways to support Terry’s great work. If you want to learn more about how you can help make a difference and the specific projects she is currently working on, please visit her website.

We think Terry’s dedication and approach is truly exceptional and we wish her lots of continuing success. Based in Michigan Terry also has a clear vision to inspire people nationwide and abroad. We trust that she will be able to have a positive impact in many ways.

But go and see for yourself. And, don’t forget to share your story with us should you have found this article particularly inspiring and encouraging to pursue your dreams!

You might also like to read more on the 46664 charity bangles that benefit Nelson Mandela's health charity, Luckyou's awesome paper jewelry that is handmade in a South African township , the cute Love and Peace bracelets that benefit the SOS Children's Villages or the charitable t-shirts by One Tribe. Or, discover how you can support CINI UK, a children charity that fights poverty, malnutrition and ill health in India.

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