Ten Thousand Villages offers a link to various cultures

The Thousand Villages is a nonprofit Fair Trade organization that markets and sells thousands of handmade, one-of-a-kind products made by over 120 disadvantaged artisan groups in more than 35 countries around the world. Products include jewelry, glassware, wall art, clocks, clothing, indoor and outdoor items, and so much more. Visiting the store is such a global collaboration of sharing culture through handmade items and acts as inspiration.

The company was founded in the 1940s by Edna Ruth Byler from Akron, Pa., who traveled the world and noticed the unmatched and unique craftsmanship of people who were simply selling their products on the street to provide for their families. Byler began purchasing products, mainly from disadvantaged women, throughout her travels, and sold them out of the trunk of her car; she allowed the public to see firsthand the pure artistry of those living with so much less than the average citizen in the United States. While selling the items from her Chevrolet, Byler not only shared the stories and backgrounds of those who made a particular good, but also how it was made, with what materials, and how the purchase of the item would contribute to a woman and her family gaining a little more economic independence.

“We create opportunities for artisans in developing countries to earn income by bringing their products and stories to our markets through long-term, fair trading relationships,” is the mission of Ten Thousand Villages.

Ten Thousand Villages opened a retail store in Tanger Outlets Seaside in July managed by Tim Dickerman, who has a true passion for his position; noting the importance of organizations like this in aiding those in need.

“It is truly amazing to see what these people not only think of but create from items that would most likely be in a landfill in the United States, and turn them into something functional for everyday use. It is important to support these artisan groups that struggle to have access to things we take for granted, such as clean water, education, food. All of the items in this store are handmade, and it is so evident the raw talent and passion these artists possess. Their creativity is not only out of this world, but it is connecting our cultures,” said Dickerman.

Each item in the store is not only unique, colorful and handmade, but is crafted using local materials the artists have access to, which are mostly natural or recycled items. The use of recycled objects not only sets the bar for sustainable living but highlights the care the makers have for their surroundings.

“Every time a shipment comes in, my employees and myself are so excited to see the new work we are able to share with the public. This great concept is lending such a big hand to such a great cause, and the fair trade methods help these artisans and their communities overcome so many obstacles. We are so happy to now have a store in Rehoboth which has been more than welcoming, yielding nothing but positive feedback, and be able to share these products and more importantly the stories behind them,” added Dickerman.

When an item is purchased, the customer is given information on the story behind the artisan group, where it was made and how it was made. Shedding light on these talents and their communities has always been a goal of Ten Thousand Villages since its humble beginnings. It is now one of the largest fair trade movements in the world due to its sustainable business practices, aid that it has generated, and the recognition given to the talents of others.

“We are truly retail with a purpose; we need to help these people and we will not hesitate to continue to do so. This experience and opportunity is personally fulfilling, and we are proud to support artists in different countries because at the end of the day we are one united, connected village.”

Ten Thousand Villages is open adhering to the outlets’ schedule: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., until the season changes.

The Rehoboth location also has a Facebook page designated to that particular site, where Dickerman posts news, coupons and discounts. Go to facebook.com/tenthousandvillagesrehoboth.