World of Good

Just in time for holiday shopping, I discovered a company called World of Good, which sells ethically-sourced gifts, housewares and accessories. The thrill I feel reminds me of when I first discovered The Body Shop on lower Broadway in NYC back when The Body Shop stood for something, back when I was young and impressionable.

Okay, so I'm still impressionable, and World of Good impresses me. Started by two graduates from the UC Berkeley Business School, World of Good creates a bridge between consumers and small, artisan organizations around the world, most of which are comprised of women. World of Good provides the artisans with 0% interest loans for 50% of the order to fund production and the balance when the product is delivered. It provides long-term commitments and technical assistance, and ensures fair wages. Plus, World of Good donates 10% of its profits to give grants to organizations that support projects and the artists' communities.

But, most importantly, World of Good gives consumers a chance to choose something made by hand and have a hand in changing the world. And I must add, the products I saw were gorgeous and affordable!

World of Good has sold more than 100,000 handcrafts made by 133 artisan groups in 31 countries. It has created employment for disabled artisans in Cambodia and for HIV-positive women in Swaziland, promoted anti-child-labor activism in India, provided Tsunami relief in Sri Lanka and supported educational programs in Guatamala and Nepal.

This holiday season, remember that your dollar talks, and that you hold the ability to change the world in your hands every time you meet a cash register.

Check out World of Good at www.worldofgood.com.