the DAR Project

Based in Clarksville, Tenn., the DAR Project works with consignment sales around the country to collect clothing items for distribution to low-income communities, both domestically and abroad. Founder Martha Montiel-Lewis said that they will use the O’More course as a springboard for a continuing program, and that the students will be instrumental in providing the Haitian women with a consistent livelihood.

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“Through the DAR Project, I realized I wanted to give these women a sustainable opportunity that teaches them the art of business. They have often been without resources, and because of that are naturally creative to make ends meet,” she said. “At the end, I believe this will be a great experience for the students, and an opportunity the Haitian ladies would have never dreamed of.”

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Montiel-Lewis said the children’s collection will be sold in boutiques throughout Middle Tennessee, and hopefully, the country.

O’More instructor and alumna Annette Medcalf will lead the class of eight fashion design students during the Spring 2013 semester through each design step, from fashion forecasting and fabric research to pattern making and manufacturing assembly.

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“This gives the students an opportunity to go through each complete process in real life. It’s experience that can’t be replaced with anything else,” she said. “They’ll be doing something that people don’t do until their first job.”

For more information about the project, click here.

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