FAQs

Why did we change our name? 

Ten Thousand Villages Champaign is now Village Roots. As the national Ten Thousand Villages network restructures, stores like ours have been invited to step into their own identity while continuing to carry the fair trade movement forward.

We celebrate our roots in Champaign-Urbana (since 1985) and love being a part of this community. We are rooted in our commitment to work in solidarity with small-scale farmers, artisans, marginalized communities, consumers and enterprises worldwide. Our unique products share the roots of our partners around the world and provide them access to markets and sustainable livelihoods.

While our name has changed, our purpose has not. We believe in a world where trade can be a force for good, and where all people can thrive with dignity and respect.

Are you still a nonprofit store? 

Yes! We've been a registered 501(c)(3) organization since our founding and continue to be governed by a local, Champaign-Urbana-based board of directors.

Has your mission changed? 

No. Our name has changed but our values remain the same. We bring together global and local communities through fair trade, ensuring that every purchase supports livelihoods rooted in equity, sustainability, and dignity for all.

Will you continue to sell Ten Thousand Villages Products?

Yes! All of your favorite Ten Thousand Villages products like the Kenyan Wedding Sculpture and Bicycle Pizza Cutter from India are still available in our store. We also offer wonderful goods from a number of other fair trade partners.

Can I still place an order for Ten Thousand Villages items? 

Yes! If the item is in stock and available to us through Ten Thousand Villages, we’re happy to place a special order for you.

Will you still  honor other Ten Thousand Villages National promotions? 

Yes and no. All regular priced Ten Thousand Villages items will match the price online. However, we are no longer able to participate in Ten Thousand Villages promotions or offers. Under our new name Village Roots, we now run our own promotions and sales throughout the year, so we encourage you to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, or sign up for our email list to stay in the loop!

Can I still use my FiveStars rewards? 

Yes! Points earned in-store are still valid at Village Roots, even if they were earned under our previous name.

Can I purchase gift cards? 

Yes! Gift cards redeemable here at Village Roots are available for purchase both in-store and online.

Can I buy or use my Ten Thousand Villages gift cards here?  

Yes—for now. We are currently able to accept Ten Thousand Villages gift cards, but that will change in the near future. We strongly encourage you to redeem any remaining balances soon, while we are still able to accept them.