Rebel Nell – Detroit, Michigan
Rarely does a store stop me in my tracks because I find it so unique and compelling. Rebel Nell has a physical location in Detroit that doubles as their workshop. They are a social enterprise providing employment to women navigating barriers to work – whether housing insecurity, incarceration, displacement, disability, or other systemic obstacles.
Reclaimed materials are taken and transformed into meaningful keepsakes and gifts.
Their product lines track with major landmarks. Rings and necklaces are made from fabric taken from discarded seats at the Fox Theater. A unique line takes paint from the painted rocks on campus at Albion College, University of Michigan, Michigan State and Wayne State.
As I struck up a conversation the staff member shared how over 40 women who were homeless have been helped by the program.
One other activity caught my eye. During airport layovers they had a guided art activity for $35. This introduced an element of creativity and gives something to do during long airport stays.