Prefaced by the work of their daughter, Glenda, John and Doris McVay are the passionate stewards of Beauty for Ashes Florida. Beauty for Ashes Nepal, founded by their daughter, is an organization working to empower survivors of human trafficking and women who may be at risk of trafficking by fostering an environment that reflects the power of community, independence and faith.
The McVays pursue their own chapter here in Florida through selling items handcrafted by the women at Beauty for Ashes Nepal. The McVays are working in the Markets and the community not only as Vendors, but as sponsors and stewards of positive change.
Inspired by their daughter, whom they describe as, “A smiler, a laugher and a lover of the Lord”, the McVays have continued to speak out against human trafficking with a special focus on educating the youth. They deeply understand the plaguing issue of human trafficking, the ways in which it manifests, and the ways in which it can be reduced. They share, “Trafficking is growing larger than the drug industry because there is even more money involved in it.”
Glenda left a corporate position and moved to Nepal seven years ago to follow a higher calling, that of employing women who are vulnerable and at risk of exploitation and rescuing those she can from trafficking.
In Nepal, Glenda uses the model of a healthy family environment as the modality for healing, growth and independence among the women who are part of the Beauty for Ashes movement. The items the women handcraft translate into much more than just income for them.
The McVays embrace the aspect of family at the Beach Markets they have been participating in for almost three years. “They are a glowing example of proactivity, love, commitment and stewardship,” states Laura Garrison, Market Operations Manager for the Beach Markets of Madeira Beach and Indian Shores. “Not only are they a joy to be around, they advocate for the very core issues of what we strive for in our Markets, that of community, growth and fostering positive, heart-centered changes. We’re truly blessed to have them—and Glenda– as part of the Market family.”
