Shopping for a Change

I discovered Shopping for a Change through an Instagram post by actress Daniela Ruah. The level of support S4AC provides to charities around the world is amazing. I love shopping on their website, knowing the proceeds benefit these wonderful charities. S4AC, please continue to keep up the fantastic work!!

Bought gifts from this organization over the years and they never fail to deliver. Love their work.

Absolutely love everything about this organization. Its message, its mission, its impact, the products, the people.

I have wholeheartedly supported Shopping for a Change since its inception. As a board member I have seen how Stacey has worked tirelessly breathing life into Shopping for a Change and sustaining it for nine years. Shopping for a Change has a strong commitment to improving the lives and well-being of the artisans we support, their families and their communities. Supplying people with clean water to drink, eyeglasses to help them to see, and education for their children are life changing events. Some of these have included statements that what Stacey and Shopping for a Change did, allowed an artisan to send their child to school. That changed the future for that child. We are touched every year by the testimonials we receive from those impacted by our annual community improvement projects. I am proud and honored to have been an integral part of this organization.

What an exceptional experience with Shopping for a Change. At one of our major conference recently, Keller Williams was looking for a partner to support the local charity, Homeless to Home. Homeless to Home helps transition individuals and families who were once homeless, into their new homes. Stacey, the Founder of Shopping for a Change, devised a fantastic concept - provide beautiful items for welcome home baskets which could be assembled by our attendees. Along with assembling a basket, each person was able to write encouraging messages and best wishes to the recipients. It was heartwarming to see busy conference attendees stop, pause, and engage with this wonderful idea. Keller Williams purchased all of these items from SFAC, all carefully curated and selected by Stacey. Items included dish towels, breadboards, and other useful and beautiful home items recipients would probably not have been able to purchase themselves. The entire corporate project was thoughtfully put together with thought and heart. Thank you, SFAC!

I've ordered several handwoven bracelets from Rwanda as gifts for friends. I just ordered another one for myself. I also order beautiful Namibian baskets. All of the items are so beautiful and unique. And it's a wonderful feeling to know I've supported these talented artisans. I recommend Shopping for a Change to everyone for the Holiday shopping this year!

Shopping for a Change is an amazing organization with a powerful mission and business model. Our goods are unique and high quality, and our customer service is impeccable. SFAC is always my one-stop-shop for gifts for all occasions!

I have been donors to Shopping for a Change since its launch back in 2010. We really believe in their mission, the fact that they help employ and empower artisans around the world--especially women, and love the types of projects they execute each year with the proceeds from their product sales. We also really appreciate the fact that part of their proceeds from sales also stay here in the United States, benefitting nonprofits selected by their customers when they shop.

Shopping for a Change DEFINITELY deserves a spot among the best non-profits! This has been my favorite “go-to” for earrings. The selections are unique and beautiful, and each has an inspirational profile of its artisans. I have yet to wear a pair without receiving compliments!

Customer service is excellent, and the mission is both compassionate and empowering for SFAC’s global communities of creative talent.

Love this organization. They bring beautiful things from around the globe that benefit the actual artisans. It has revolutionized my gift giving. Not only that, their staff is amazing, no black hole, whenever I have a question, etc. there is always a real person to talk to.

We love supporting this charity which provides a venue to support women in their entrepreneurial endeavors giving them earnings and assistance within their businesses and benefits the infrastructure of their communities.

This organization empowers women and gives them a platform to sell their high quality artisan goods.

The mission and the many ways they serve have a global impact everyone can participate in.

I ordered a pair of earrings for a trip. I needed jewelry that could dress up for evening receptions and down for casual lunches and dinners. The earrings were perfect. Polished brass that were very high quality in their finish and design. They have become my favorites! The ordering and shipping were fast and easy. Also, I liked being part of making a positive change in people’s lives. There are so many items to choose from, this site has become a favorite for myself and for gifts.

I purchased a beautiful necklace for an upcoming soiree! Rapid personalized service! I really like the incredible detail to packaging and hearing the wonderful back story to each piece. I hope to use this for some corporate gifts in the future!

At first I purchased a few pieces of jewelry at a craft show, just to help the cause. I got so many compliments and felt so pretty wearing the few pieces.
Now, about 4 years later, give or take, this is my go to for holiday shopping. The customer service is top notch, all items are of fine quality and craftsmanship, and they arrive within days. The owner is responsive and extremely easy to work with.
Shopping for a Change is an exciting fun way to shop while drinking my coffee on a weekend morning, and I feel good about empowering women all over the world to make a difference for themselves and their families.

I first found Shopping for a Change after returning home from Swaziland and wishing I had bought more textiles when I had the chance. SFAC had what I was looking for, and their unique business model spoke to me. I've purchased from them a few times since, and I am always blown away by the quality and care that goes into each piece (and the packaging!). I highly recommend Shopping for a Change to others who want their purchases to support many different entities and communities worldwide.

I would say "I FOUND"... but they really found me at a recent event.
Check out SHOPPING FOR A CHANGE!
As a Realtor, I honestly don't have much free time, so as a non- shopper I now have the BEST ONLINE shopping site!
Great products, for a great cause, doing great things for people in places all over the world.
Check it out -- the product quality is impressive. I am using items for self and for gifts!
And, my friends, family and clients are DELIGHTED with the gifts they are receiving from me :)

Before I interned with SFAC, I knew it was a wonderful organization doing a lot of great work. But after I interned over the summer, I learned the dedication and hard work Stacey puts in behind the scenes to provide elite customer service and a personal touch to all her products. Even though many of the jobs I was tasked to required more individual work, Stacey still found a way to mentor me by elucidating all the business decisions and teaching me about the business model. SFAC is such a well run organization doing so much good that I hope to help out and promote their cause even after the summer is over!

I’ve known Stacey for a while and while I was not surprised that she started this wonderful non-profit, I was truly impressed with the quality and selection of goods offered, the partnerships created with the crafts-people, and the way the funds are distributed. It’s amazing the breadth of artisans she’s found to showcase and the beautiful creations they make. And including the option to support SFAC through AmazonSmile is a wonderful idea too. My purchases have gone smoothly and her team has taken good care of me and my orders.

Stacey’s passion and commitment to support these communities while also giving back, both internationally and domestically, is inspiring. I look forward to checking out the site periodically to see what new artisans and items she’s found to include!

I worked as an intern for Shopping for a Change this summer, and my experience there was wonderful. The organization supports such an amazing cause, and Stacey's drive and motivation was inspirational. I was able to learn about the hard work that goes into making this brilliant organization run, and Stacey has become an invaluable mentor to me. SFAC has fostered my passion to give back to other communities and my own, and I hope to contribute more to their cause and others in the future!

The hats I ordered as new baby gifts were fabulous! They were high quality, adorable, exactly as pictured on the website and they arrived quickly. I've ordered other types of items from this website before -- you can trust that you'll be happy with anything you purchase here!

I have shopped with this nonprofit for a few years now. I first learned about it through a story I saw about Stacy on a local television station. I was inspired by her hard work in getting recognition for hard working creative mothers in under privileged countries trying to provide for their families. I went to the Shopping for a Change website and saw all the beautiful products that are hand made. Everything from clothing to accessories. I ordered jewelry and some children's clothing. The service was superb. I received my purchases in a couple of days via Priority Mail and was very happy with the workmanship and detail that had gone into the making of the products. I have ordered from this nonprofit many times for unique gifts, knowing I am helping women in many countries give a better life to the ones they love. I have even spoken with Stacy, who is a hands on boss. One of the children's sweaters I wanted was on back order. She called me to ask if it was OK to wait for it or did I want to cancel the order or get something else. She was very personable and wonderful to speak to. I will definitely be shopping from this nonprofit for many years to come.

Just found Shopping for a Change. Will definitely support this nonprofit! Thank you!

I ordered several items that were BEAUTIFUL and reasonably priced. I then returned to purchase a few more as holiday gifts for friends and family. Stacey was wonderful to work with and Shopping for a Change will be my new go-to for gift giving. Wonderful!

I ordered a necklace and bracelet for my mother for Mother's Day from this organization and the service was excellent. Great customer service with a personal touch and the products were really well made and beautiful as well. I received my order super quickly too. It's a wonderful organization for a great cause and I will be shopping for a change again for sure.

AMAZING! From the jewelry, to the baby clothes, to the home goods, and MORE, Shopping for a Change has it all! Gorgeous, one of kind items lovingly handcrafted by artisans from around the world! I’ve found that their products make wonderful gifts for family members, friends and clients. The customer service is impeccable, and the products are true works of art. I have been stopped numerous times on the street by complete strangers asking where I got the gorgeous, Tagua Bib necklace. But the best part of Shopping for a Change, is that the funds they raise are used to transform lives around the world. As a buyer, I am excited to know that one half of the net proceeds from my purchase directly benefit the communities in which these artisans live and work, while the other half goes to US, non-profit organizations of my choice. As a result, Shopping for a Change is the first place I turn to when looking for something truly special, and unique. I recently purchased the teak cutting board, and copper cheese tools for a wedding gift. The newlyweds were blown away by the exquisite materials used in the crafting of these items. I am proud to give a gift that is not only beautiful, but helping empower people all around the world.

I ordered a wonderful wooden bowl from Shopping for a Change. The experience has been wonderful. Stacey kept me informed on the progress of my order and ensured I had complete satisfaction. I recommend Shopping for a Change to help make a difference in the lives of those in need. Thank you Stacey!!

I ordered a beautiful wrap (at the last minute) to wear to my daughters wedding. I am currently at our cottage 2 hours north of Toronto ( live in Charlotte, NC) Trying to figure out how to get it in time was a challenge. Stacie was amazing - texted me with updates and options until we sorted it out. I can't remember when I last had such amazing service. I would shop here everyday if I could. Can't wait till I get my wrap!

I contacted Shopping for a Change to assist with client gifts for my hotel over the holidays. I wanted to go in a unique direction providing our clients something useful and gender neutral that they would really like while also giving back to the artisans in their country and a local organization of my choice. Shopping for a Change provided me with several options, and I chose a beautiful bamboo bowl with our company logo engraved on the back which my clients absolutely loved. They also designed a card that we included in the packaging which described the origin of the bowl, and who the proceeds benefited both internationally and domestically. It was the most well received corporate gift of my career and I can't wait to purchase more from Shopping for a Change.

Such a wonderful organization. From the people that shop for a change to the volunteers to the board, and of course, their founder, Stacey, this organization has all the right pieces to change the world.

Shopping for a change is the kind of charity I love! They empower people to start their own businesses and become self sufficient. They then sell high quality products from these businesses on their web site. I've purchased many of them for myself, family, and friends. They make great gifts too!

Shopping for a change is a unique kind of nonprofit in how it aids those in developing countries. It makes it so that artisans in these countries can feed their children and plan for the future instead of always worrying about the present. My experience with this nonprofit has shown me the positive impact that a customers purchase can have - from contributing to paying for a year of high school for teens in Swaziland to helping women who have escaped sex trafficking in the Philippines - Shopping for a Change empowers people all over the world. Not only are the people I've worked with in this nonprofit some of the kindest and most caring people I've met, but there is a definite feeling of purpose. Everything that is done is done to try to make the organization the best it can possibly be with countless hours poured into every detail. Ultimately, I would highly recommend Shopping for a Change as it is a nonprofit that strives towards and succeeds at making the world a brighter place.

I read about Shopping for a Change in my college alumni magazine and I'm so glad I've discovered this fabulous charity. The items they sell are top quality and they're delivered quickly. I love them so much I posted about them on Facebook and have told all my friends. You can't go wrong supporting their wonderful work.

Working with SFAC this year was a pleasure! Stacey always finds the balance between professionalism and passion, and I fully support her efforts to make a change in these countries, one person at a time. SFAC has nursed my want to contribute to other communities abroad in order to help them raise themselves up out of poverty. It has also given me an opportunity to donate to local community efforts. If there's any organization could contribute all my time into, it would be this one.

Stacey's passion is apparent in the way she runs the business: hand-selecting the right products, great attention to detail, excellent customer service and ensuring the charities and causes are meaningful and impactful. It is refreshing in this day and age to find businesses that are fully committed to giving back and making a change globally. The products speak volumes for the effort and love that is being put towards creating them by the artisans that it makes you want to be involved with this business and play a role in driving positive change around the world.

Having had the opportunity to work with Shopping for a Change for several years, I'm always impressed with the organization and the commitment that the people involved have towards truly making the world a better place to be. Not only does Shopping for a Change provide beautiful products from talented artists, but they have created a vehicle by which the artists can sell their works and increase their quality of life for many generations to come. Please keep up the great work !

I have been so impressed by Shopping for a Change. Its dual missions of empowering indigenous artisans and their communities as well as assisting US charities are worthy of support,and the artisan-produced articles are beautiful and wide-ranging. It is my favorite site for shopping for gifts for friends, family, and myself! Stacey Horowitz and her team have done a great job.

This is the most wonderful non-profit I have ever ordered from. They are fast, efficient and they send what you order in the most creative wrap and ribbon! They are doing something good instead of a for profit-only business. Cheers to Stacey and her team.

Stacy does a great job telling the stories and engaging with both those being served and those looking to make a great contribution. It has been really helpful when providing gifts in helping share who has been helped and in aiding to pass along the various stories

Stacey is wonderful & this nonprofit is fantastic!

High quality products that support sustainable development.

I love the items on Shopping for a Change! The jewelry, home goods and accessories are truly one of a kind and I plan on doing all of my Christmas shopping at this site. Not only am I giving back, but I'm also finding beautifully made gifts for my family and friends this season!

Shopping for a Change provides one of those instances where you can be both a consumer and give at the same time. The products sold on their website help to support and empower communities. It's a pleasure to shop with them.

This summer, I had an amazing experience interning at Shopping for a Change. I learned so much about the operations of small businesses, the technical mechanics behind an online store, and how to market to customers effectively- skills that will definitely help me later on. As a high school student, I was pleasantly surprised by the amount of responsibility that the founder and CEO trusted me with; and by taking on impactful and sometimes challenging tasks I was able to learn so much more.

The products on the site are carefully selected and must not only impress customers but also align with the nonprofit's ideals. While searching for potential artisan groups, Stacey always ensures that they handcraft their pieces in underdeveloped countries (where underemployment is widespread) under fair trade conditions. She also offers great prices, and each item is incredibly beautiful and unique. Rather than taking a salary for the hard work she puts in, she selflessly directs profits towards community improvement projects, most recently funding a new preschool in Bangladesh.

Whether you're looking to volunteer or shop, I would highly recommend Shopping for a Change!

I have had the privilege of volunteering as an intern with Stacey Horowitz, the founder, for two years, and the insight I have gained into the organization only furthered my admiration for it as well as Stacey! Shopping for a Change has an entirely different business model than any nonprofit I have ever worked with, and it is truly focused on empowering others around the world.

Shopping for a Change is committed to helping others in need, in the hope that they will be able to support themselves in the future. So much time goes into making sure all products is made with quality, and the artisans who make them work sustainably and ethically under Fair Trade conditions. Then, SFAC donates all net proceeds to community improvement projects that directly benefit the artisans and their families, as well as deserving US charities.

The work Stacey does directly impacts people around the world, and taking part is as simple as buying a great piece of jewelry! I hope Stacey and SFAC continue to make an amazing difference, and am thankful to have been a part of it!

Shopping for a Change really is one of those phenomenal companies that is growing exponentially and completely deserves it. My family has worked with many nonprofits and charities in the past, but none of their business models can even compare with Shopping for a Changes'. The updated website is so professional that it feels just like you're shopping at your local department store- except with SFAC, you're actively making a change!

Stacey, the founder, is an extremely hardworking, smart woman who is never satisfied with anything less than the best. All of the products are examined in detail before SFAC chooses to carry them, so they are always trendy and unique. Everyone should keep an eye out for this nonprofit; they are destined to thrive! :)

Shopping for a Change is not only a great idea but it's extremely well-executed. It's purpose is admirable but there are many worthy causes out there. Shopping for a Change also provides beautiful merchandise that's well-marketed. It's wonderful to feel that you are supporting people who are working to improve their lives -- and to buy something beautiful and useful. Frankly though the "support" is completely earned. These artisans create products that are high quality, interesting, and less expensive that what you'd find for comparable items in traditional stores. It's wonderful that Shopping for a Change can bring these goods to market and let us all appreciate them.

I’m a serial entrepreneur and an investor in start-up businesses. I was the first donor / investor in Shopping for a Change (SFAC), in 2010. I worked closely with the founder, Stacey Horowitz, during the conceptual and early organizational stages of SFAC. Stacey asked if I would be willing to write a letter supporting SFAC’s application to Catapult, and I told her that I’d be honored to do so.

I first learned of SFAC when Stacey asked to meet with me to share her ideas about a new kind of charity that provides self-fulfilling opportunities for community development and empowerment on a global scale. By providing artisans in developing countries access to consumers in established markets, SFAC helps underserved communities help themselves by fostering new sources of revenue and economic opportunity. This benefit is compounded by SFAC’s direct support of important community development projects and domestic charities.

I believe that SFAC represents a new wave of socially responsible ventures, so I was immediately intrigued. Stacey’s unique business model, professional experience, artistic talent and keen sensibility for marketable handicrafts, prompted me to make an unsolicited offer to seed her philanthropic venture. I initially donated $50,000 to help launch SFAC. In its inaugural year I served as a board member, and during the past two years I have served as an advisor. Stacey and I continue to meet at least once annually, and communicate throughout the year.

SFAC gives something very unique to the communities it supports - it provides hope. By enabling artisans to create viable means of self (and family) support, SFAC lays the groundwork for sustainable improvements in basic life necessities - clean water, adequate nutrition, health care and education - things that all parents want for their children. Rather than simply donate cash, SFAC does something much more profound and lasting - it helps foster the micro-enterprises necessary for real, bottom-up community transformation.

In addition to providing opportunity for disadvantaged artisans around the world, SFAC turns the shopping experience itself into an act of giving. The management team, with input from partners and customers, targets high-impact projects in artisan communities, and allocates proceeds from online sales to help fund those projects. I have watched SFAC successfully implement their first two community improvement projects, with its third project being funded through the current year’s sales.
SFAC has been strategic in their choice of projects to fund—with a focus on clean water, education and health care—three areas that have a real impact on living conditions within the community, and which appeal to shoppers on the site. Staying true to their mission, they have partnered with artisan groups and local NGOs to assure that the funds were being utilized effectively and as promised.
SFAC is successfully building partnerships with other nonprofit organizations, to help these charities raise additional funds through the website and at live events. These partnerships help SFAC as well, by building awareness, web traffic and incremental sales. And, of course, every new sale, whether online or at a live event, helps the artisan and her family.
Finally, the SFAC board of directors annually adds a select group of nonprofits with goals similar to theirs--supporting children, health, education and communities, to the list of nonprofits from which the consumer can choose to direct half the net proceeds, during the checkout process.
Launching and operating a high-quality e-commerce site is very challenging. Transforming the shopping experience into a catalyst for real community development is even harder. SFAC has invested years of work into online merchandising and sales, consumer support, artisan representation and global partnerships. The organization has accomplished a tremendous amount, and has truly helped improve the living standards and prospects of communities world-wide. In true entrepreneurial fashion, SFAC has done this with minimal investment and maximum hard work. There are no fancy titles, jet planes, NFL boxes or other perqs at SFAC. Just a passionate and consistent focus on the mission of improving lives one sale at a time.

Lawrence Braitman

My daughter had the opportunity to do summer internship with “Shopping for a Change” last year, and she continued this work during the school year as well. She worked under the guidance of the founder Stacey Horowitz. Overall, she had a wonderful and rewarding experience! The work was very interesting and had a lot of variety. She wrote blogs, articles, and descriptions of merchandise, did internet marketing via social media and search engines, interviewed artisans and social leaders from distant parts of the world, and organized fundraisers and exhibitions. She enjoyed every bit of it and came out as a more responsible, and more sensitive individual with greater empathy for disadvantaged people. She improved her written as well as verbal communication too, and I can see her more confident in her leadership endeavors. It was a great exposure to not only a non-profit but also to a small, start-up type business environment. The work environment was very constructive and
positive, and a lot of fun as well. The hours and the workload were just right. I would like to
thank Stacey for a very well organized, highly motivating and educational experience she created
for the students, and strongly recommend this program to other high school students.

I work for a non profit and we are always looking for different ways to raise funds. We discovered Shopping for a Change back in 201q and started promoting it to our parents. What an amazing way for us to raise money for our school - while helping to support a great cause! I have a bracelet and a set of earrings that I wear almost every day and get complimented on all the time. I recently had a baby and can't wait until he fits into the darling animal sweaters!! He already has the stuffed hippo - one of his best friends :) The animals are very well made. Shopping for a change has raised several hundred dollars for our school just through our parents shopping and buying gifts online.

It has been great working with Stacey- she works to promote our goods which in turn helps employ our knitters. For every sweater sold, a woman is able to proudly provide for her family. We really appreciate all that is done for us!

We recently worked on the redesign on the website for Shopping for a Change and it was a great experience not only working with Stacey and her team, but learning about some of the awesome and unique products and people all over the world that they work with. This was a great experience even for our experienced team. Thank you Stacey and great work.

Not only does Shopping for a Change have great and unusual merchandise at a reasonable price for the shopper, but serves a valuable purpose. Knowing that a portion of the price goes to a nonprofit is a win-win situation for everyone. I like knowing that someone else is being helped. It is a wonderful organization.

I have been a client of Shopping for a Change for a while.
Stacey Horowitz is doing so much good around the world
& I am happy that I can share in that experience. Every
item I have purchased from her has been created with
love, care and consideration. I am proud to be a customer
& am sharing that with others I know.
Gratefully, Barbara

Having worked in the Fair Trade industry for a dozen years and as an owner of a Fair Trade company I can say with sincerity and experience that Shopping for a Change makes it possible for women around the world to earn a respectable income which enables them to provide for their families in a meaningful way. Shopping for a Change not only is providing a terrific service for humanity but their ethos is in complete alignment with the work they support around the world. SHOP on Shopping for a Change and use your "impact purchasing power" to change life for so many around the globe. I love this organization! Katy Leakey

While searching for an internship to do over the summer I came across Shopping for a Change on the school website, the description online highlights both the fun-loving fashionable and caring charitable aspects of the company. I was immediately drawn to the combination that Shopping for a Change offers. However, the aspect that truly struck me was the international community that SFAC embodies. The company connects people across the world. A woman purchasing a pair of earring from her home in California is directly helping another woman working in Guatemala or India or Thailand. It gives people the opportunity to connect with a person across the globe, to lend a helping hand and to get a lovely pair of earrings. The company makes the world a smaller, more interconnected place and lets individual people choose to make the difference.

Hi! I'm Jessica and I work as an intern at Shopping for A Change.

To be completely honest, I didn't actually expect much out of this internship in the beginning. I had the impression that because Shopping for a Change was less distinguished than other organizations I had interned at previously, the work I did would be less challenging and important...And though I don't usually admit it, I was very wrong!! Having worked here only month now, I've already interviewed and written about the founders of various organizations. I've familiarized myself with the inventory of Shopping for A Change's products and seen how beautiful and professional each piece is. Thanks to Stacey's guidance and all I've done at this internship, I'm really starting to understand and appreciate everything that this nonprofit is doing to help people worldwide - I hope that Stacey gets the opportunity to continue her work through Shopping for a Change for many years to come!

Stacey has made positive ripples around the globe by bringing exquisite, unique craft pieces to a market that can appreciate and afford them. The bowls from Swaziland (I am now a proud owner of one) are absolute works of art. My grown daughters love the jewelry selections, and we're all happy about contributing to the benefit of the far-away artisans.

Shopping for a Change is the best kind of shopping.

I first came into contact with Shopping for a Change last holiday season at a boutique where they were a vendor. I was immediately taken with their mission, their goods and operation, and with Stacey Horowitz. The model is a win-win. The organization benefits many artisans in many developing countries of the world, benefits local charities, and benefits us as the purchaser. That's a triple win!!! I have kept in touch with Stacey because I truly believe in and support what she is doing. Her high level of professionalism is remarkable, her goods are of the highest quality, and her humanitarian outreach is exceptional. Shopping for a Change is making a difference and enriching many lives around the world, including my own. I wish the organization continued success in all that they strive to do.

I get compliments every time I wear one of the many pieces of jewelry that I have purchased from Shopping for a Change and feel good that my purchases are helping folks in need. The level of customer service is outstanding! Its obvious that this is a very well run organization.

Shopping for a change is an exceptional non-profit, and Stacey Horowitz is a consummate humanitarian. She came up with a novel idea to help people in underprivileged areas, while benefiting other non-profits here at home. I have had the pleasure of volunteering with Stacy and she is truly committed to the well-being of the people she is helping. The products that Stacey has purveyed are beautiful, well made and priced fairly. As a customer, I am pleased to know that my purchase will be enjoyed by someone AND immensely satisfied knowing that the money I am spending will improve someone else's life.

I found Shopping for a Change about a year ago and instantly fell in love. What they are doing in developing countries is really admirable! And Stacy has an incredible eye. it is so easy to shop because she has picked wonderful unique items that are well priced and you feel really good about helping someone else when you purchase them. They were my main holiday supplier last Christmas and I have wonderful pieces myself that I always get great comments on. I recommend them to all my friends and have liked them on FB and am happy to recommend them here.

Shopping for a Change is a great nonprofit! The structure of the organization is wonderful and helps so many people around the world. The website makes it so easy and clear to shop by country, as well as learn about the different artisans and collections available. The products are all of high quality and beautifully handcrafted. I would recommend shopping this website for great gifts, jewelry, bags, and home decor!

In the month I have spent as an intern at Shopping for a Change, my admiration for this nonprofit has not ceased to grow. I love that the organization works not just to reduce poverty worldwide, but to help people build their livelihoods through work that they can feel proud of. In addition, it allows people living in the U.S. to support developing nations simply by shopping! I encourage customers to find out the moving stories behind the creation of each of these exotic products...one will truly find their appreciation for them amplified.

I have spent almost a month now interning with Shopping for a Change and I am so impressed with every facet of this organization. I was first drawn to Shopping for a Change because of its unique business model--you can buy a product and help the artisans that make it, charities in the United States, and contribute to one of their yearly community improvement projects (in 2012 they supported a teacher in Kenya). Not only is the idea amazing, but the products are gorgeous and unique. Working with Stacey, the founder, I have learned so much not only abut the lives of the women who create these products, but also how their lives have been improved.

As soon as I found out about Shopping for a Change, I've been such a fan. The staff is super hardworking and helpful, constantly trying to improve the business in realistic ways. Not overpriced, has great material quality, it's fantastic! And super cute too :) Great Cause, Great Products, Great Company.

Shopping for a change is a great idea! It has wonderful products from wonderful places all over the world. The customer service is amazing. It is great to be able to purchase something that benefits others as well as recognizes so many talented people in the world who otherwise may continue to be unnoticed.

A Birthday, A Question, An Action - All Lead To A First Sip of Clean Water

It is rare when a woman meets a significant birthday and dares to start something brand new, not to better herself in looks or wealth, but to help others. Stacey Horowitz is one of those women. In one short year, her vision has brought her partnership with UNICEF, the support of the band Barenaked Ladies and even has a celebrity following her on Twitter.

I first heard about Shopping for a Change®, when I admired a friend's beautifully crafted necklace. I was so enthralled by the story and concept that I was invited to sit in a Board Meeting the following month and have been a part of the organization since then. This non-profit organization, is a fair trade marketplace where artisans, predominantly women from developing countries, sell their handmade creations, and enables them to earn a sustainable income and lift themselves from poverty. Our net proceeds subsidize community improvement projects abroad as well as select U.S.-based charities who raise funds for their causes when their supporters shop our site.

During our inaugural year, our 2011community improvement project abroad was the Tibane Water Project in Swaziland, Africa. Shopping for a Change, together with Unicef, and Water Gives Life--an Australian nonprofit), provided a community of over 400 people, clean water for the first time. This new water system is expected to service the people of Tibane and nearby Homesteads for 20 years. When we saw photos of their first taste of fresh water, it brought tears to our eyes.
Our first project for 2012 will be to provide a year’s salary for one teacher in the Enkutoto-Elangata-Enterit Group Ranch in Kenya, where our artisans with The Leakey Collection reside. Imagine purchasing beautifully crafted jewelry, accessories and apparel and benefiting those who are working for a better life at the same time. Please be part of the change by Shopping For A Change.

I am a designer and always looking for new handmade products. I found Shopping for a Change on the internet and was immediately intrigued with their mission and appreciation of artisan skills. Through her company, Shopping for a change, Stacey Horowitz is working hard to make shopping meaningful and help Third World artisans and communities. I admire Stacey's devotion and wish her and her projects tremendous success.

I am a huge fan of shopping and now I can do it with a purpose...and feel really good about it. I love the merchandise and I have never gotten anything but amazing feed back from the gifts I have purchased. They are unique and one of a kind and I particular love the story that comes with each piece so that the person I am giving the gift to understands this is a special gift helping other women and our local communities. it just feels good to give.

I learned of this organization from friends of the founder. After reading about the story behind Shopping For A Change, I felt compelled to be a part of this mission. And so I purchased an item or two. First, I have to say that the merchandise is different (unique) and not too pricey. Then, the items came beautifully hand-wrapped. I thought that was a very nice touch! I like what this organization stand for, and like their products, and I expect to be ordering again -- for myself and/or gift items for friends.

Great shopping experience. I found Shopping For A Change online and they had great prices on some necklaces I wanted. Their website was easy to navigate. Their prices on high-quality fair-trade goods were great and their customer service was outstanding!

I became aware of Shopping for a Change earlier this year when several items from Shopping for a Change were donated to my children's school charity auction. I loved the items and the cause and have placed several orders this year... the items have been received in great condition and in a very timely manner! I am extremely impressed with this organization, the mission, and incredible customer service!

I was recently introduced to this organization and its founder, Stacey Horowitz. As a professional who volunteers her time to many non-profits and assists many others with fundraising and awareness, I can honestly say how utterly impressed I was with Shopping For A Change and its founder. Born out of sheer passion and drive to assist those in need, the organization's business model is designed to assist multiple causes and people, both domestically and abroad, simultaneously. I admire and whole-heartily endorse Shopping For A Change and encourage everyone to check out this organization and support it by shopping on their site. Proceeds of your purchase are split equally between a global and domestic cause. With your purchase, you will be supporting artisans in third world countries, whose wares are the featured products, supporting a featured annual philanthropic project like last year's water purification in a third world country, and simultaneously supporting a domestic non-profit of your choosing from their ever-growing list of US non-profit partners. Philanthropy for the common good at its best! --Abbe S.

I have recently become involved in an advisory capacity with Shopping for a Change. I already was taken in by the creativity, sincerity and passion that Stacey (the founder) portrays. In associating my name with the business, however, I also wanted to see it from a consumer perspective. After all , that is how this business will be able to truly benefit the women. I went to the website and was thrilled with the variety and artistry of the products available. It was hard to choose what to order, but after I did, my package came in a timely manner and was wrapped beautifully. The product is spectacular as well! This business is set for success all the way around.

Shopping For A Change is a highly ambitious, effective and innovative way of connecting marginalized regions to the global online market -- in a way that simultaneously provides beneficial, far-reaching impacts (not to mention intergenerational ripple effects). The Founder, Stacey Horowitz, possesses the perfect combination of characteristics required to lead such an organization: passionate, intelligent and genuinely caring. The products provided offer consumers in the developed world authentic, high quality goods which add flavor and culture, while giving off an overall guilt-free satisfaction. It's exciting to see more and more consumers divert their interests away from the mainstream, and instead toward innovative, triple-bottom-line-oriented organizations like Shopping For A Change.

This is my second summer interning for Shopping for a Change and it's been amazing to see the progress made in those short 12 months. SFAC is finding its place in the nonprofit world and its founder, Stacey Horowitz, is eager to continue spreading the word about her unique organization. I highly encourage others to not only shop their site (of course!) but also to read into the business model (proceeds go to pay artisans, support community improvement projects abroad, and donate to US charities), because it is indicative of how large and all-encompassing Stacey wants her realm of influence to be in this world.

Shopping for a Change is a unique retail experience where shoppers can feel like they're making a real, significant difference while getting the great stuff they'd like to be buying anyway. I wish more companies followed their lead.

Hi! I’m Pheabe. I fell in love with Shopping for a Change when I learned about the company’s unique business model. Shopping for a Change sends half the net proceeds to fund projects in the artisans’ communities, like building a well. The other half goes to a US charity of the buyer’s choice or to an organization that’s partnered with them through their Fundraise for a Change program. I’ve been volunteering with Shopping for a Change for almost a year now and it’s amazing to see the impact we’re made in such a short period of time. Shopping at Shopping for a Change is a better alternative to shopping at stores like Nordstroms or Neiman Marcus, because our items are of similar style and equal quality and it goes to a great cause! Go shopping for a change!

My first encounter with Shopping for a Change occurred when I admired a beautiful necklace that the founder, Stacey, was wearing at a dinner. I was curious and a conversation began. I discovered that Shopping for a Change helps artisans around the world become self-sufficient by working with communities to develop products-such as the necklace Stacey wore--that are of high quality, yet maintain the artistic value of the artisan's culture. Not only does Shopping for a Change help artisans internationally, but also supports home based organizations in the U.S through the development of partnerships. To me, this is a perfect pay it forward situation. I wholeheartedly support the philosophy that helping others is really about helping them help themselves. Shopping for a Change is not a band-aid approach to community problems, but a commitment to ensure that the basic economic needs of humans, as well as universal needs such as finding purpose in life and upholding one’s heritage, is met over the long term. I am so glad that necklace caught my attention and allowed me to learn more about this wonderful organization.

Shopping for a Change™ (SFAC) is a business model that provides work for marginalized groups of artisans and a means for marketing their products. That in and of itself helps make the world a better place, but it doesn’t stop there. What makes Shopping for a Change™ different is that they pay the artisans fair wages up front for their products, and then direct half of their net proceeds towards projects for the betterment of those artisan communities. In addition, U.S. based nonprofit organizations can partner at no cost, with SFAC, so when their supporters shop the SFAC site, their charity receives a portion of the net proceeds.
Instead of just shopping our days away, we can make our shopping count, locally and globally at Shopping for a Change - beautiful hand made products from around the globe.