WISH LIST $100: introductory jewelry-making kits for 3 low-income women; $500: 10 entrepreneurship lessons for a group of low-income women; $1000: capital equipment to expand the curriculum into metalwork

According to the Washington Area Women's Foundation, 30% of those who live below the poverty line in DC are members of women-headed households, a higher percentage than for any other group. Make Piece/Peace wants to change that, one household at a time. Its core program trains low-income women in a marketable skill - making high-quality jewelry using precious stones and metals. Students learn jewelry sizing, bead stringing, pearl knotting, wire wrapping, and design and color theory. They also learn how to be entrepreneurs: business planning, financing, promoting, designing trade names, investing in tools and supplies, are all part of the program. And, of course, learning sound financial management skills is key. Graduates are prepared to work in the jewelry business or a related field, start their own business, or work in Make Piece's laboratory social enterprise to deepen their skills, broaden their markets, and gain management experience - all while earning a living wage. Make Piece opens a whole new world of opportunity: this is a gem that you won't want to miss.

Maureen O'Keefe Ward, Founding President 128 M Street NW, Suite 300 Washington, DC 20001 202-216-0053 www.mkpiece.org