Melissa Joy Manning is a fine jewelry designer and philanthropist who grew up in a household that valued social and environmental responsibility, principles she has incorporated into her business, Melissa Joy Manning, INC. Melissa Joy Manning, INC is dedicated to making a social impact through ethical, Green Certified practices. As part of her role as a social entrepreneur, Melissa supports and advocates for hunger relief through Feeding America as well as Alameda County Community Food Bank and Food Bank For New York City, both network member food banks that serve the communities where her MJM jewelry boutiques are located. This past holiday season, Melissa Joy Manning hosted in-store events for both network member food banks along with an E-commerce Charity Drive for Feeding America to help raise funds and awareness for hunger relief nationally and in her local communities.
Melissa says: “I think there is just so much need, and I see it from my own back door in New York. It pains me to think that I am here doing what I love while knowing at the same time that a kid down the street may miss a meal that day. For me, it’s a matter of sharing our blessings with those who are less fortunate.
By giving to Feeding America, I know how much my dollar accomplishes and how many people are impacted by what I am able to give. As a donor, it is empowering to know that I am actively participating in the fight against hunger in my own communities and nationally.
I create jewelry to create change. All of our jewelry is made in-house by a team of artists who earn living wages and a competitive benefit and retirement package. We spend most of our lives at work and I believe that work should be a culture that embraces and supports every member. It is important to me that I not only take care of those within my organization but other members of my community, which is why I am proud to contribute to my local food banks and nationally through Feeding America.”
