Fashion for a Cause

Shopping, apparel, accessories, home decor... it's easy to get caught up in the sparkle of new jewelry or the luxury of an incredible bag. We all work hard for what we have, and sometimes these little indulgences are the perfect reward for all the hours we put in at work, school, and home. So what could make your shopping experience even better? What could improve the experience not only for you but for someone across the world who could use a helping hand?

Making a difference while you buy.

Shopping for a Change® is more than just a chance to get gorgeous goods with a little kickback to a charity. This is a new model on an old theme. It's giving back at its best, by turning dollars into dreams for indigenous and often impoverished artisans working to change the lives of their families, friends, and communities. By providing these incredibly talented artisans with exposure to US-based buyers who might otherwise have no chance to see their work, Shopping for a Change® gives consumers the chance to increase their social awareness while simultaneously getting their hands on unique accessories that truly make an impact in the lives of the artists.

More than that, this global fashion network brings intricate, culturally infused jewelry, apparel, accessories, and decor directly to first-world consumers in a secure shopping experience that allows traditional crafts to continue to flourish. Artisans set their own terms of payment for product, giving them full control over their site-generated income. Half of the net proceeds go toward funding community projects and grants that go even further to make a lasting impact for struggling communities. What happens to the other half of the net proceeds? They go to a nonprofit of the consumer's choice from a list provided at checkout, allowing you to make a difference both domestically and abroad.

During their first year of business, consumers' purchases helped fund the Tibane Water Project in Swaziland Africa, and this year's shopping will pay for a teacher's salary in rural Kenya. Partnering with non-profit organizations such as Unicef, Water Gives Life (Australian),  and T.R.A.D.E, the Leakey Collection's nonprofit arm, provides additional support and helps insure the funds are being used as they are designated.

Shopping for a Change® broadens the reach of every consumer dollar, and helps you make a difference in the world. So whenever you go shopping, go Shopping for a Change!

Empowering others, transforming lives®.


Heather Hurd is a writer, blogger, and content management professional. As the mother to one incredible toddler, what little spare time she has involves a budding fitness fascination and lots of reading. (@SushiJammies)


Shopping for a Change® (SFAC) empowering others, transforming lives® is a web-based 501(c)(3) non-profit organization where artisans (predominantly women) from developing countries, sell their handmade creations enabling them to earn a sustainable income and lift themselves from poverty. The net proceeds subsidize community improvement projects abroad as well as help fund select U.S.-based non-profit organizations of the web shopper’s choosing from SFAC’s partner list.