My first thought was to purchase chickens or bees through Heifer International - a worthwhile project indeed, but one in which I would have no contact with people. I felt challenged to give something that would encourage some dialogue about the gift of the money. The answer came in the form of giving gifts purchased at the non-profit store, Ten Thousand Villages. One of theTen Thousand Villages stores is right in the church's neighborhood. The store is stocked with merchandise purchased at a fair trade value from artisans in impoverished regions throughout the world. Purchasing something through Ten Thousand Villages allows these artisans to improve on their condition with dignity. It gives villagers hope and helps families to put food on their table and provide education for their children. I was able to purchase six small gifts with my $25.00 which I will give along with some information about Ten Thousand Villages to people who are not currently involved in a church.

Jeanne Bushong