A Few Of the Many Industry Organizations Rio Grande Supports:
CERF+
CERF+ is the leading nonprofit that focuses on safeguarding artists' livelihoods nationwide. Through Rio Grande's Sweeps for CERF+ program, you can recycle your sweeps to help jewelers in need. All proceeds are sent directly to CERF+. CERF+ accepts online donations.
Over the years, CERF+ has assisted hundreds of jewelers. The partnership between CERF+ and Rio Grande has provided funds, supplies, terms and other support to rebuild jewelers' businesses. CERF+ and Rio Grande partner with victims to craft a plan for rebuilding after serious setbacks caused by circumstances such as flood, fire, storms and personal health issues.
Learn MoreToolbox Initiative
The Toolbox Initiative, founded by Matthieu Cheminée and Tim McCreight in 2014, is a non-profit, long-term effort that relies on volunteers to distribute tools and supplies to jewelers in West Africa. The Toolbox Initiative accepts used and new tools, silver scraps, and monetary donations. Learn more about this incredible effort.
This year, Rio Grande shipped more than 300 pounds of tools to jewelers in West Africa through a combined effort with Albuquerque jewelry school Meltdown Studio.
Learn MoreEthical Metalsmiths
Since 2004, Ethical Metalsmiths has been working with jewelers as well as student, professional and hobbyist metalsmiths to increase awareness of dangerous manufacturing practices and responsible material sourcing in the industry. The organization is working towards a vision of a future with jewelers and consumers contributing to the well-being of the earth, its peoples and its cultures.
Rio Grande has supported and partnered with Ethical Metalsmiths for a number of years with donations of time and money, and through support of the organization's conferences.
Learn MoreOther Organizations Rio Grande Supports:
- MJSA
- Chicago Responsible Jewelry Council
- Women's Jewelry Association
- Portland Jewelry Symposium
- Enamelist Society
- Society of North American Goldsmiths
- Santa Fe Symposium
- Local metals arts guilds, societies and associations across the country