When World of Good was founded Pryia Haji (CEO and co-founder) envisioned a hybrid approach: an openly funded nonprofit organization and a for-profit business, each operating independently with separate staff and leadership. World of Good.org is a 501(c)3 organization advocating better working conditions for the world's poorest.World of Good, the for-profit company, relies on venture capitalists and quick growth to meet consumer demands. Instead of selling a few items at their local markets, artisans find access to a huge marketplace. World of Good is based on the idea of a social business and promotes social change rather than a simple profit.
"World of Good" Partners With Major Retail Stores
World of Good partners with mainstream retail stores to sell creatively crafted gifts, jewelry and small housewares. The line can be found in more than 1,200 retail locations across the U.S. The product origin is clearly labeled. Inside the tag of each individual "World of Good - item" consumers can read the unique story of exactly how they are making a difference in someone's life. A pair of hand-crafted silver earrings are made by the Karen hilltribe people in the remote mountains of Thailand. The Karen people have been known for centuries for their beautiful handwoven clothing and exquisite silver jewelry. By purchasing the jewelry consumers help to provide an income and give women the ability to work at home versus commuting to large factories.
"World of Good" Partners with eBay for an Online Marketplace
In September 2008 World of Good launched its online marketplace with eBay. The eBay site sells fixed-priced goods crafted of recycled or sustainably harvested materials. They come from artisan groups in 34 different countries who can significantly improve their lives through the sale of their handmade products. Online shoppers can search by social or environmental categories through thousands of products from socially responsible sellers. Tsunami survivors in Indonesia and Sumatra could rebuild their houses and lives through the sale of handbags sewn on treadle machines without electricity. It takes a whole day to make one bag.
"World of Good" Means Socially Responsible Gift Giving
With leaner wallets in the current economic situation and a growing social and environmental consciousness, consumers begin to give a bit more thought to gift giving. WorldofGood.org also developed the Fair Wage Guide, a website that helps artisans and craft buyers calculate costs and determine if the artisans are paid a fair wage for their labor time.
In November 2008 the Newshour with Jim Lehrer ran a report titled Social Values and Shopping Unite about World of Good and its goal to spread social awareness among U.S. consumers. World of Good teams up with local groups in 34 countries. 10% of the company's profits are donated to their artisan partners to build schools, improve health care and develop infrastructure.
See also Muhammad Yunus and the Grameen Bank
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