Seeds of Power

Praise for Seeds of Power

“The narrative structure really works. it’s crisp and a compelling story and will be a, a useful book that gives a vivid illustration of how women expand opportunities, capabilities, and human flourishing in their communities.”

-Dr. Rita Saylors, Professor Emerita of English, Texas Southern University; participant in three ICUUW journeys and two international convocations

“Kudos to Laura Nagel and Karen LaFrance for documenting this fascinating account of the birth, nurturing, and continued growth of ICUUW, a powerful international women’s organization that currently reaches women in 17 countries around the world.”

-Arlene Johnson, Past President of ICUUW and the UU Women’s Federation

“A loving friendship between two women has resulted in the empowerment of women and families in multiple countries. Supporting female-owned micro–enterprises alleviates poverty and promotes economic empowerment in ways that are greater than the sums of their parts. And it’s no surprise that this work was enabled, in part, by Unitarian Universalism, my religion, which centers on love.”

-Marva William, retired community development expert, financial manager, and teacher; a colleague of Karen’s in Pittsburgh and Unitarian Universalist leader

“During his 1968 presidential campaign, Robert F. Kennedy often quoted: ‘Some men see things as they are and say why? I dream things that never were and say why not?’ Karen LaFrance and Laura Nagel embody that spirit in their faith-based, mission-driven work around the globe. Although I was peripherally involved in their work in Uganda, I had no idea of its breadth until I read Seeds of Power: Global Sisters in Action. This remarkable book reveals an extraordinary commitment to shared ideals, an ability to unite people across cultures, and a selfless determination to build a worldwide community of empowered women. Rather than serving as a simple “how-to” manual, Seeds of Power demonstrates what can happen when vision is joined with friendship, faith, and a community of loving “instigators.” Karen and Laura saw what could be and asked, “Why not?” This inspiring book is a testament to their courage, tenacity, and vision-and to the power of ordinary people working together to change the world. Well done, ladies, well done.”

-Michael Aaron Glass, African Rural Schools Foundation volunteer who traveled to Mutundwe Village outside Kampala, Uganda, with Rev. Renee Waun to meet with small business entrepreneurs as part of the Microlending Program

“This memoir follows women who mentor, organize, and stay in touch across borders, until their loose circles become a formal network that is recognized by the United Nations Economic and Social Council. Their interesting journeys and dedication reinforce the message that a small group of thoughtful, committed people with actions repeated over time add up to make genuine global change.”

-James Hills, Past Secretary, ANZUUA (Australian and New Zealand Unitarian Universalist Association), filmed and produced, Semillas de Poder, YouTube