Growing up in Vermont, Sara Stender Delaney was used to a pretty bucolic life.

So when she traveled to Rwanda after the infamous genocide, she was struck by how different (and awful) life could be and dedicated herself to helping.

After creating an organization called Africa Healing Exchange to help the people recover their proud heritage and sense of self, Sara looked for a way to help the people economically as well.

Having given up alcohol years before and realizing the benefits this life choice had brought her, Sara combined the pure mountain water of her native Vermont with the sun-kissed teas of Africa to create Sarilla,– a fermented tea that not only eschews alcohol, but puts in its place organic Hibiscus, Rooibos, Honeybush, Tulsi Holy Basil, Lemongrass, Chamomile, and all the other nutritious and healthful ingredients that make tea so good and good for you!

As I have been a fan for years, I was thrilled when Sara sent a few extra cases for my recent interview with Jordan Rich at the Needham Library. They were all a big hit and I am sure that even more people have been enjoying them since.

As she wants to reach as many people as she can with her tea so they can help the people who help make them, Sarilla comes in a variety of forms that range from loose-leaf teas and single-serving cans to five-gallon kegs and also in a variety of flavors and forms so that everyone can enjoy and benefit. As she has no problem inviting retailers to use her tea as a private label brand, Sarilla has become a secret hit at a wide range of venues, including many breweries where it works well for the designated drivers and those who, like Sara, want to focus on their own missions with open eyes and a satisfied stomach. No matter which flavor you try or where and how you get it, sipping Sarilla is an easy way to help yourself and others.