About Us
How It Works
NAAM Artisans is a new program within the New American Association of Massachusetts (NAAM) started in 2022. Most of NAAM Artisans’ members are new immigrants who face language barriers along with the day-to-day challenges of acculturating into the USA. Many of our members came to the USA with artisanal skills and talents that they brought from their homeland. The program encourages and supports each member to discover their potential, and to build upon these skills to create professional opportunities and generate income. We take a strengths-based approach, focusing heavily on identifying and finessing the unique capabilities in each of our members. Members are also guided to learn new skills in the program. Together at our weekly meetings, we research, develop, and execute many, many beautiful, handcrafted products that we sell at craft markets throughout New England, and now at our new online shop.
Every member is involved, when possible, in the craft markets. Here they have the hands-on experience of running a small business face-to-face with the community. So many wonderful friendships and business connections have transpired through NAAM Artisans. A few of the members are now confident enough to ‘go it alone’ and sell at local craft and farmers markets without the assistance of the program.
What We Do
Providing Materials
& TOOLS
Through our community partners and sponsors we supply all the materials and tools that are needed. We provide transportation to and from the program. Our members have the option of bringing their children to our structured, fun and educational childcare program that is operated on site during program hours by our early childhood professionals.
100% of Proceeds go to artisans
Each artisan receives 100% of the proceeds from the sale of an item that they have made. The joy and pride that is felt each month when the paychecks are issued is immeasurable. For many, this is the first time they have ever received a paycheck. Step by step, one sale at a time, this is breaking the barrier of refugees and immigrants having the highest unemployment rates* in the USA.
*The unemployment rate for the general U.S. population increased from 4.1 percent to 6.5 percent from 2020 to 2021, while recently arrived refugees’ average unemployment rate increased from 11.7 percent to 15.9 percent. April 1, 2023
creating a social community
Not only does learning how to research, design, make, and sell a retail-ready product boost self-confidence and self-worth; the process brings deep meaning to day-to-day life and helps tremendously to lift our members’ spirits. Without a doubt, the program helps our members out of isolation and creates a social community where great friendships have formed. We share delicious food and many tales of life around the world.
Order Wholesale
For small quantity manufacturing contact lhansard@naamass.org
Gifting Program
Consider purchasing meaningful gifts for your clients/employees. NAAM Artisans can make small batch, memorable gifts that people love to receive.
Alterations
Several of the women living in Lynn, MA and Newburyport, MA areas are very good at alterations. Please contact Lesley Hansard lhansard@naamass.org or call 603.205.4941
With Your Help, We Are Changing Lives
Volunteering is a wonderful way to connect with refugees and immigrants. Whether it be helping in-person in your community or assisting with online learning. NAAM has many different program areas, including NAAM Artisans, and we are always looking for volunteers
Our Mission, Vision & Values
NAAM Artisans’ Mission: We partner with newly arrived refugees and immigrants to offer artisan skill training, micro business and entrepreneurship practices, financial literacy, and wellness workshops. Together we are building an education pipeline to strengthen job skills, self-agency, and personal wellbeing. NAAM’s overall mission is directly reflected in NAAM Artisans’ programming where we work to break the isolation barrier, nurture community and assist in creating income through art.
NAAM Artisans’ Vision: We empower all members to create their own futures through the hand making and sale of artisan products that will provide a sustainable income. We work towards softening the transition into the USA and envision each individual thriving in their new home country with the support of NAAM’s extensive wrap around social services programs.
NAAM Artisans’ Values: We take a non-judgmental, culturally sensitive, holistic approach with our members, staff, and community partners. We support every individual to grow and flourish within our supportive community and the community at large. We embrace the values of the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights.