Alumni in Action - Veronica Mangio | Minneapolis College of Art and Design

Alumni in Action - Veronica Mangio

gift

Veronica Mangio, is one of our newest 2024 MA in Sustainable Design graduates. Here is a recap in her words of how her thesis work inspired the recent launch of her new business, Gift Economies & The Value of Gifts in Community.

“I’m beyond thrilled to share a project that has grown into a business close to my heart: Gifting Grove.

Born from my Master of Sustainable Design thesis project, Gifting Grove’s mission is to reimagine how we value and consume goods and services. Instead of tying worth to material things, we focus on valuing people, the planet, and the relationships we nurture.

Inspired by Robin Wall Kimmerer’s Braiding Sweetgrass, Gifting Grove embraces the concept of a gift economy—a mindset shift where we view goods, services, people, and nature as gifts. This perspective fosters a deep reverence for life. In a time when so many are struggling with loneliness and languishing, it brings new meaning to what we receive and encourages us to give back and honor the gifts that sustain us. This is reciprocity.

At Gifting Grove, we redefine consumption by focusing on the giving and receiving of gifts, transforming our social traditions and relationships—with the things we consume, with each other, and with nature.

Through events, workshops, and activities that are rooted in sustainable practices, Gifting Grove offers opportunities to:

  • Develop your gifts
  • Cultivate a sense of belonging
  • Engage in giving and receiving gifts
  • Deepen your connection with nature

Be Part of the Gifting Grove

As we approach 2025, we need community now more than ever. This is just the beginning of our journey to create a world rooted in abundance, reciprocity, and sustainability.

I’m currently seeking Hub Trees and Mother Trees—those with the time and energy to host workshops, lead activities, or help others explore their gifts. I’m also looking for organizations interested in partnering on community events. In the new year, we will be looking for grants to support these initiatives.

We’re actively fundraising to officially obtain 501(c)(3) nonprofit status by the end of the year. Any support—big or small—is deeply appreciated! Here is a link to our GoFundMe: https://gofund.me/8b51f4a9

Ready to join the forest? Follow along, reach out, and let’s plant the seeds of a new way forward.”

https://www.giftinggrove.org/

Thank you, Veronica!

Categories
Sustainability
Biomimicry

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