Ten Thousand Villages State College is a local non-profit with a global vision and mission. We are affiliated with Ten Thousand Villages US in Akron Pennsylvania and operate a store at 1431 S. Atherton Street in State College Pennsylvania.
We’re part of a global maker-to-market movement that addresses economic injustice. Because every handcrafted object has a life of meaning behind it. We’re a way for you to shop with intention for ethically-sourced handcrafted wares – and to share in the joy of empowering makers in ten thousand villages.
Our Mission – 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.
Our Vision – 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.
History
The national organization was begun by Ruth Edna Byler. Read more about Ruth and her story here.
The local non-profit in State College was founded in October of 2016 by a small group of individuals interested in exploring the dream of opening a Ten Thousand Villages store in the area. After a couple of years of fund-raising and awareness building, we leased the store front at 1431 S. Atherton St and opened our doors for business in September of 2018. After several years of success we expanded into an adjoining store front in September of 2021, almost doubling our retail space.
Kieran Holland was hired to manage the day-to-day operations of the store and is our executive director.
Jenn Miller is our volunteer and outreach manager.
The board of directors has overall responsibility for the non-profit and the store. The board meets every other month on the Monday of odd numbered months.
Jim Candor, chair
Jean Landis, vice chair
Frank Dougherty, treasurer
Joel Weidner, secretary
Paige Castellanos
Kris Charles
Colleen Connolley-Ahern
Mary Dickson
Sophie Penny
If you’re interested in getting involved in our organization, click here.