Made in America- it matters.

I work with a lot of American manufacturers. Companies that are still making it in the USA.

That may not seem that important to the average, everyday person, but manufacturing is vital for the health and future of our community, and the surrounding communities. For every 10 manufacturing jobs 16 new jobs are created to service the manufacturer. That's major.

I handle several accounts that have outsourced some of their production to Mexico. They shut down their operations in American cities, laid off American workers, and shipped operations south of the border. You can bet that the factory closing was reported on the news. You can bet that the number of layoffs were reported. What I would also bet, is that the number of jobs that were lost servicing said manufacturer were not reported. Why? Those job losses were not all at once, but they happened. Guaranteed. Families were left struggling. Wondering how they were going to cover their mortgage payment. Or their car note. Or their grocery bill. 

This is happening all the time, and it's my fault. It's your fault. We are all at fault. It's not okay.

It's not okay that in the chase for instant gratification (because, after all, that's what it is when you are chasing down the cheapest price, that you can instantly afford, rather than suck it up, save and pay the premium for quality.) families are losing their homes. Men and women are coming home, having to tell their families that they have to file for unemployment. 

We are a community. We are tightly intertwined. What you do, and where you purchase matters. It affects your neighbor, whether you know it or not. Where that label says that item is manufactured matters. That item stands for jobs. That item stands for homes. That item stands for community. 

With all that being said, I have to put my money where my mouth is. I see the value in "Made in the USA." I value quality items. I value American manufacturing. I value local artisans. 

So because change starts in the hearts of individuals, I'm starting a project. Made in America.

 30 days. After thirty days, it should theoretically be habit. This means I won't be able to instantly gratify those wants or needs. This means I'll have to research items. This means I won't be able to make thoughtless purchases. This means I may have to save to be able to afford the premium for American made. This means I am contributing to American job growth. This means I am keeping American manufacturing in America. This means I'm ensuring the safety of my own job. 

I'll update regularly. We'll see how it goes! 

Wish me luck!