{art + innovation} #inspiration
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Nothing Stops a Bullet Like a Job
July 30, 2011
The phrase halted me. It’s one of those perfectly true, super-poignant lines applicable to so many scenarios: “Nothing Stops a Bullet Like a Job.” Given how America’s latest unemployment rate varies from 9.2% to over 20%, depending on the pundit, this little tote packs punch. You can also apply this concept to war-ravaged countries rebuilding their looted land or gangs plot planning their next drug trade: most people will ultimately choose self-sustaining work over dead-end violence for a chance at a better life in the long run.
The phrase holds more meaning because it’s actually the tagline for Homeboy Industries, America’s largest gang intervention program. Did you know that it costs on average $79 for a day in prison vs. $3.42 for a day on probation? That’s why this non-profit is inspiring: this enabling engine has been teaching and placing at-risk gang members into gainful employment for 23 years through their own businesses. The model program operates 5 businesses around Los Angeles: bakery, farmer’s market, cafe, silkscreen, and a just-opened diner in City Hall. Talk about applying what you learn. Yes, homegirls are equally included. It’s like these citizens learn how to fish on their own fish farm! Brilliant.
This tote can be purchased at L.A.’s Museum of Contemporary Art’s (MOCA) online store while available. A portion of the proceeds goes back to supporting Homeboy Industries.
This reminds me of the tune from Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs… “Hi ho, hi ho, it’s off to work we go!”
Freehand Life 