we’re more than a store
As the world’s original fair trader, we have been breaking the cycle of poverty in developing countries for over 70 years.
Ten Thousand Villages envisions a world where all artisans in earn a fair wage, are treated with dignity and respect and are empowered to live a life of quality.
How can you be part of our story?
Give now... Learn More ...
Our Mission
Ten Thousand Villages’ mission is to create opportunities for artisans in developing countries to earn income by bringing their products and stories to North American markets through long-term, fair trading relationships.
Global programs ...Our Impact
Since 1946, we have provided over $140 million in sustainable income to artisans in developing countries who would have otherwise been unemployed or underemployed.
Find out more ...Give Now
Consider a gift that will support our mission, helping to improve the lives of artisans.
If you wish to give through your donor advised fund, click here.
- what makes Ten Thousand Villages unique?
-
Purchasing Where It’s Needed
Ten Thousand Villages evaluates artisan groups based on the United Nations Human Development Index and the Genie Coefficient, evaluating the disparity between poverty and wealth, in each of the countries in which we work. Purchasing is determined on need and sustainability, with the average relationship with our artisan groups being 12 years.
Success Story
Fifteen years ago Rina Dewri and her husband were struggling to earn enough to feed their family. Now her children are going to college and Rina has become a dye specialist who trains new artisans in the techniques she learned at Bibortan Handmade Paper in Bangladesh.
How Rina turned things around ...contact us
We thank you in advance for your support of our mission as we continue the journey to end poverty for people around the world.
Remember, no matter what you buy or how much you give, you are affecting individual lives and entire communities in transformative ways.
On behalf of the artisans in the developing countries in which we work, thank you.
Andrea Rush
Director of Development
717.859.8122
