Roger Dery Launches Nonprofit Focused on East Africa

Published

6 years ago

August 30, 2018

INSTORE Staff

(PRESS RELEASE) ROYAL OAK, MI – Roger Dery of Roger Dery Gem Design, with his wife Ginger and daughter Rachel, has launched Gem Legacy, a 501c3 nonprofit organization dedicated to education, vocational training, and local economies in East African mining communities.

“Gem Legacy is dedicated to what we’ve been doing in Africa for over 20 years,” said Roger Dery, President of Roger Dery Gem Design and Gem Legacy, Inc. “In our 57 combined trips to Africa, we have met thousands of people in East Africa’s remote villages and bush mines where gems have had a remarkable influence on their lives. Gems bring hope, make a difference, and leave a lasting change… a timeless legacy. It is time to raise up an army to support the husbands, wives, daughters, sons, brothers, sisters, granddaughters, and grandsons of gemstones.”

The organization has several initiatives, including Gem Faceting Training, Kitarini Primary School, and Gemological Training. 100% of every donation returns directly to the communities where gems are mined. For more information about Gem Legacy, Inc. or to donate, please email info@gemlegacy.org or visit gemlegacy.org. To learn more, follow Gem Legacy on Instagram @thegemlegacy and on Facebook @thegemlegacy.

This Third-Generation Jeweler Was Ready for Retirement. He Called Wilkerson

Retirement is never easy, especially when it means the end to a business that was founded in 1884. But for Laura and Sam Sipe, it was time to put their own needs first. They decided to close J.C. Sipe Jewelers, one of Indianapolis’ most trusted names in fine jewelry, and call Wilkerson. “Laura and I decided the conditions were right,” says Sam. Wilkerson handled every detail in their going-out-of-business sale, from marketing to manning the sales floor. “The main goal was to sell our existing inventory that’s all paid for and turn that into cash for our retirement,” says Sam. “It’s been very, very productive.” Would they recommend Wilkerson to other jewelers who want to enjoy their golden years? Absolutely! “Call Wilkerson,” says Laura. “They can help you achieve your goals so you’ll be able to move into retirement comfortably.”