A familiar downtown Champaign fair trade store is beginning a new chapter. The nonprofit retailer formerly operating as Ten Thousand Villages Champaign has officially adopted a new name, Village Roots, along with a refreshed brand identity, following the conclusion of a national licensing agreement between Ten Thousand Villages U.S. and independently owned stores. While the name is changing, the organization behind the store remains the same. The shop has been operated by the local nonprofit SelfHelp Village Craft, Inc. since 1985, connecting Champaign-Urbana shoppers with handcrafted goods from artisan groups around the world through fair trade partnerships. It is the only verified fair trade store in the Champaign-Urbana area. Fair trade partnerships like these ensure artisans receive fair prices for their work while providing consumers access to distinctive handcrafted products from around the world.

“While the name is changing, the heart of our store remains the same,” said Emily King, Executive Director of Village Roots. “This store was built by the Champaign-Urbana community nearly 40 years ago, and it continues to be sustained by the volunteers, customers, and supporters who believe in fair trade. Village Roots reflects both where we started and our commitment to continuing that mission for years to come.”

As Village Roots begins this new chapter, the store remains committed to its mission of connecting global artisans with the Champaign-Urbana community through fair trade. With the support of volunteers, board members, and loyal customers, the organization looks forward to continuing its work for years to come.

Village Roots is located at 105 N. Walnut Street in downtown Champaign, with store hours remaining the same.