02/14/2025
💜Our Gangster of the Week is Alex Elman-Foley, a dear friend of our founders Isha & Pam. Alex, Isha, and Pam go way, way back! They first met Alex when she was a patron of Gatsby's, the infamous and eclectic store in Great Barrington that Pam managed and Isha worked at. The three friends have been inseparable ever since!
Alex grew up between the Berkshires and New York, and attended Boston University. A savvy business woman, Alex founded a wine company that imported organic, authentic, and small-batch wines from Spain, Italy, and Argentina.
After selling the business in 2016, Alex was ready for a new adventure. She fell in love with the city of Sarasota, Florida for its music, art, and rich culture. She dubs the city her "little piece of paradise," applauding the community's investment in the arts. She believes that "without art and culture, a city loses its soul."
After moving to Sarasota, Alex joined the Board of the nonprofit organization The Lighthouse Vision Loss Education Center. As someone who lost her vision due to Type 1 Diabetes at age 27, Alex understands the importance of helping those with vision loss access the tools they need to succeed.
Tasked with helping the organization grow and expand its reach, she soon became CEO. She explains, "I had the vision, I guess you could say!" The organization's motto is "When it goes dark, we bring the light."
Lighthouse engages in a number of outreach and education initiatives, including a partnership with the Ringling Museum of Art that helps adapt presentations for people with vision loss. The Lighthouse Vision Loss Center is proud to celebrate their 40th anniversary this year.
Throughout the month of February, Gangster Goddess Apparel will be donating 10% from every item sold to this fantastic organization. Thank you for helping us support their incredible initiatives!
