MICHIGAN MAKES IT: Green Bangles for Good

It started out as another sibling vacation, but by the end of it, Sue, Sherry, Shannon, and Scott had an idea that would change their lives.

In August of 2009, the foursome traveled together to Grand Rapids to enjoy a little family time.  Eventually the discussion turned to the current economic conditions and contemplating how they could improve their situations and those of the people around them.  On August 30, 2009, a concept was born.  They would figure out a way to recycle aluminum cans and craft them into bracelets. 

As the idea grew, it was not only a means to improve their own economic futures, but a way to improve our environment and contribute financially to the community they serve and causes they believe in.

According to Sue Long, president of Cangles, "Our mother, Shirley Jean, was very environmentally-minded, and she instilled in us a love for nature.  We used to take a lot of trips to the beach when we were kids, and even as adults we still take a 2 or 3-day vacation together every year.  We thought wouldn't it be great if we could come up with an idea that also helped the environment?"  Her sister, Shannon Rose, recalls, "We all liked the idea right away.  We didn't know how to do it yet, but we all really liked it."

As the vacation ended, they returned to Vassar where the hard work began.  Scott, who like many Michiganders had been laid off from his job, was tasked with figuring out production, eventually developing a process to collect and sterilize the cans.  They cut them by hand, take any scrap metal that results to a recycling center, and craft the remainder into unique designs.  Scott now works closely with Sue and Sherry to create new products and fill orders, while Shannon concentrates on raising awareness and marketing the company and its products. 

It's a true family collaboration and Sue, who was retired until this new adventure, says that has been very rewarding.  "As you grow up, you just don't spend as much time together.  So for me, that has been the best part.  That, and the fact that we are helping out the environment."   

The environment isn't the only thing this foursome is helping.  Along the way, the tabs are removed from the cans and donated to the Ronald McDonald House of Detroit.  They choose to support that organization in honor of Nicole Emily Briggs, the child of a Vassar family who benefited greatly from the support of the charity before Nicole passed away at just age four. 

The generosity doesn't end there.  In fact, a portion of the proceeds from each of the pieces they create goes to support a worthy cause. 

Inspired by their mother's battle with breat cancer, the family has developed some unique pieces with the familiar pink ribbon to support the Susan G. Komen Foundation.  They are feminine and attractive and are among many items that would make a lovely Mother's Day gift.   

An entire line has been created to support another eco-friendly organization, Save the Earth Foundation.  For those who not only love the fact that the jewelry itself is made from recycled material, but who want to further contribute to the preservation of our environment, these are a fantastic, contemporary choice. 

If on the other hand, you wax nostalgic, then how about a Cangle made from an old Vernor's can?  We may not be making the gingery treat here in Michigan anymore, but we can still honor the proud heritage of this flavorful fizz.  These hand-crafted bangles are a lovely combination of green and copper and $.50 from every purchase supports the work of Angel Food Ministries here in Michigan.  

The latest of these creative affiliations, is my personal favorite.  Cangles now has a line of military-inspired cuffs.  The Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, and National Guard are all represented.  According to Shannon, the response from military families has been great and one military wife's suggestion even led to a special "Hooah" cuff celebrating the famous Army term.  These are an excellent way to pay tribute to the service of a loved one and our troops in general.  For every military cuff sold, Cangles donates $1 to the Wounded Warrior Project.  With Memorial Day coming up, this is a fitting way to honor our American heroes. 

Cangles is one of many new entrepreneurial endeavors popping up around our Michigan.  It is rooted in a commitment to family, service, and to our beautiful state, where these siblings grew up.  While this is a challenging economy in which to start a new business, it is also a time of great opportunity for those willing to take a risk and put in the work it takes to succeed.  As for Cangles, their goal is to become a local success story that employs other people within their community.