Global Gifts, Inc has been a non-profit organization for over 3o years and has had a fair trade storefront in the Short North district of Columbus for over 5 years. They offer verified fair trade goods from over 40 different countries as well as items from local social enterprise organizations.
While Global Gifts purchase from artisans, farmers, and producers from over 40 different countries, they have a special relationship with Imani Workshops, based in Eldoret, Kenya. The Workshop is an economic development program for people who are HIV+ or living with AIDS. They make colorful beaded and clay jewelry, textiles, toys, and more. To learn more about Imani, read this blog.
Fair Trade provides opportunities for skillful artisans to improve their lives, fully educate their children (and themselves), and to have a wider market for their goods.

Get to know Amy!
What is your favorite fair trade product?
Dish towels made from recycled kantha textiles! I love them because they are upcycled from sari textiles, they are versatile – dish towel, end table or dresser topper, and they come in an array of wonderful colors that brighten any room!
Although the dish towel may not be one of a kind (because they are made of recycled material) each one is unique. They come to us from Sasha Craft Producers in India that supports at-risk artisan communities. The purchase of these kantha towels builds the skills of poor & marginalized artisans, enhancing their access to markets and information, and increasing their income and productivity in a sustainable way. Nearly 70% of producers are women.

What inspired you to social justice and/or the fair trade movement?
A desire to be a part of a movement with a mission to make a positive impact.

What do you want Expo shoppers to know about your booth?
We’re excited to be at the Ohio Fair Trade Expo again this year and look forward to bringing a collection of new and favorite products! I will have extra kantha towels with me, come early for the best selection.