Welcome to another inspiring episode of Best of Raleigh, where we delve into the stories that make Raleigh a remarkable place to live and work. Today, we spotlight Cary Heise, the founder of Designed For Joy, a transformative organization that’s crafting more than just exquisite leather goods—it’s forging new beginnings for women in crisis.

Cary Heise is the founder and executive director of Designed For Joy and a passionate advocate for women’s empowerment. Her journey began with a deep commitment to women’s ministry and entrepreneurship, leading to the creation of a nonprofit that marries her love for community service with business acumen.

Designed For Joy is not just about creating jobs—it’s about creating futures. The nonprofit’s mission is to offer vulnerable women safe employment opportunities by crafting beautiful leather goods and accessories, which Cary passionately discusses in today’s episode. This initiative reflects a profound vision to elevate women from hardship to hope.

Running a nonprofit is fraught with challenges, from logistical hurdles to emotional burdens. Cary discusses the realities of nonprofit leadership and the triumphs that come from overcoming societal barriers, emphasizing the hard work and dedication required to make a difference.

At Designed For Joy, empowerment is handcrafted. Women are trained to create high-quality products, including leather bags, jewelry, and home decor. This training goes beyond craftsmanship, embedding essential workplace skills and ethics, which Cary elaborates on, highlighting the therapeutic nature of their work

Since its inception, Designed For Joy has hired over 140 women, paying out over half a million dollars in living wages. This significant economic contribution underscores the organization’s role in fostering not just employment but sustainable livelihoods, which Cary proudly shares.

Designed For Joy’s impact extends into the community through strategic partnerships and contributions. From supporting affordable housing initiatives to crafting Mother’s Day baskets, the organization’s community service is a testament to its deep-rooted values, which Cary explains with heartfelt gratitude. The real success stories are the women themselves; each journey is a testament to resilience and renewal. Cary shares inspiring examples of women who have overcome immense challenges, finding new confidence and careers through Designed For Joy’s programs.

There are numerous ways to engage with Designed For Joy, from volunteering in their studios to participating in community events. Cary outlines how listeners can get involved, emphasizing the importance of community support in sustaining their efforts. Looking ahead, Cary shares her hopes for Designed For Joy’s future, including inspiring other businesses to adopt similar models. She envisions a network of support that extends beyond Raleigh, driven by a playbook that can guide other organizations in replicating their success.

Cary encourages listeners to support Designed For Joy by purchasing their products, which are available both online and in local boutiques. This consumer connection sustains the nonprofit and also spreads awareness of their valuable work.

Designed For Joy stands as a powerful example of how targeted help can transform lives. Cary’s dedication and the community’s support exemplify the best of Raleigh—a community united in its effort to uplift every member.