Most of the time buying a piece of jewelry doesn’t change the world.  Purchasing gifts can turn into an obligation and decorating a home can seem overwhelming.  Ten Thousand Villages is changing all of that.

Ten Thousand Villages, a fair trade non-profit store, is located in The Haymarket.  For years the store has been providing customers with unique experiences, and a connection to the items they purchase. “We try to create a bond between the person who made the product and the customer,” said Manager Gabriela Ayala. 

The store specializes in items such as jewelry, personal accessories, musical instruments, gifts and home décor.  Artisans who create for Ten Thousand Villages are individuals who would otherwise be unemployed in third world or developing countries.  Ten Thousand Villages buyers work with the artisans to ensure a fair price, and help them benefit. 

Primarily run by volunteers, the store can keep overhead costs to a minimum.  Ten Thousand Villages has grown tremendously and now includes 150 retail stores, 130 artisan groups and 38 countries in Asia, Africa, Latin America and the Middle East.

Ten Thousand Villages is open Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.  Check out Ten Thousand Villages online for more information.