Ten Thousand Villages

Mission: To create opportunities for artisans in developing countries to earn income by bringing their products and stories to markets through long-term fair trading relationships.

Ten Thousand Villages in downtown Asheville is a locally incorporated nonprofit organization that operates a retail store and is part of the Ten Thousand Villages global maker-to-market network. Ten Thousand Villages envisions that one day all artisans in developing countries will earn a fair wage, be treated with dignity and respect, and be able to live a life of quality.

Ten Thousand Villages partners with artisans in more than 30 developing countries to engage in a fair trade market for ethically-sourced handcrafted objects that are then sold in their retail stores. The practices ensure that artisans receive a fair, living wage in safe working conditions; focus on the use of locally-sourced, recycled, and renewable materials; empower women, individuals with disabilities, and others to become self-sustaining; and preserve indigenous legacies and skills while encouraging innovation. Handcrafted products include:

• Jewelry such as necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and rings
• Accessories such as handbags, totes, scarves, and hats
• Kitchen/dining supplies such as tableware, drinkware, table cloths, and napkins
• Entertainment products such as games, puzzles, toys, and musical instruments
• Home decor such as rugs, blankets, furniture, lamps, and baskets
• Office materials such as journals, bookmarks, bookends, and calendars
• Holiday decorations such as ornaments, garlands, cards, and gift wrap