In response to Black Lives Matter protests across the country, Ithaca College junior Annie Marie Peña-Castellanos wanted to help to make a change. She started her own small business by selling handmade keychains and jewelry to benefit Black Lives Matter organizations and bail funds.
Peña-Castellanos makes healing stone earrings, beaded earrings, necklaces, bracelets and anklets. She said that jewelry–making is an outlet for her and that selling it online allows her to share her craft with others. She started selling her items, ranging from $5 to $20, on her personal Instagram account. After a few months of success, the business now has its own Instagram, @healing_beads_xo.
In total, Peña-Castellanos said she has raised approximately $400. The money she raises goes toward bail funds all around the country. She said that 100% of the profits were being donated from June to…
