Here's a topic I get asked about a lot because of my work in the Fair Trade Industry. (Got questions about Fair Trade? Check out Fair Trade Federation, they've got their stuff figured out).
"Why is Fair Trade a better idea than traditional non-profit/charity models?"
Well, first off. Better is a lame word, because who is the person that gets to subjectively judge whats is better or not? But I'll say this: I firmly believe that Fair Trade is a more sustainable idea that traditional non-profit/charity models because it is mutually beneficial. I mean, of course there is a lot more to it, but it boils down to that simple point. When you focus on donations, whether it be time or money, you're asking one side to give up resources for nothing in return. I think if you take the time to dwell on that, you'll realize quite quickly thats not sustainable. Someone is bound to burn out.
Trade provides a solution to this traditional model focused on donated resources and inevitable burn out. When there is a mutual benefit, both parties are motivated to continue. It's trade, not aid. Direct Fair Trade operates on this principle. The idea that the buyer assures the farmer/artisan/human a fair and predictable price. This stability and relationship means that the farmer/artisan/human saves the best for the buyer. Win-win.
Just a few thoughts from my ramblin' mind this morning.
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As a side bar, I do think non-profits have a time and place. I am deeply involved with Young Life in my community. I just think that the solution to global poverty comes through trade, not aid.
"Why is Fair Trade a better idea than traditional non-profit/charity models?"
Well, first off. Better is a lame word, because who is the person that gets to subjectively judge whats is better or not? But I'll say this: I firmly believe that Fair Trade is a more sustainable idea that traditional non-profit/charity models because it is mutually beneficial. I mean, of course there is a lot more to it, but it boils down to that simple point. When you focus on donations, whether it be time or money, you're asking one side to give up resources for nothing in return. I think if you take the time to dwell on that, you'll realize quite quickly thats not sustainable. Someone is bound to burn out.
Trade provides a solution to this traditional model focused on donated resources and inevitable burn out. When there is a mutual benefit, both parties are motivated to continue. It's trade, not aid. Direct Fair Trade operates on this principle. The idea that the buyer assures the farmer/artisan/human a fair and predictable price. This stability and relationship means that the farmer/artisan/human saves the best for the buyer. Win-win.
Just a few thoughts from my ramblin' mind this morning.
- - - - -
As a side bar, I do think non-profits have a time and place. I am deeply involved with Young Life in my community. I just think that the solution to global poverty comes through trade, not aid.