Next book club meeting: last Sunday of the month, February 22 at 12:30 p.m.

This month’s book club title is especially near and dear to us. Drawing on decades of experience at the forefront of ethical sourcing, Paul Rice traces the evolution of fair trade and conscious capitalism; celebrating its progress while honestly examining the work that remains. Through the voices of farmers, artisans, activists, business leaders, and advocates, the book reveals how fair trade practices protect the environment, strengthen communities, and create lasting economic opportunity for people often left out of conventional supply chains.

Every Purchase Matters explores the powerful idea at the heart of the fair trade movement: that the choices we make as consumers can help shape a more just and sustainable world. What began as a small, values-driven effort has grown into a global movement, with ethical labels like Fair Trade, Organic, and Non-GMO becoming familiar markers of conscious consumption.

The stories shared in Every Purchase Matters reflect the same principles that guide Villages: respect for people, care for the planet, and the belief that commerce can be a force for good. They show how fair trade is not just an alternative business model, but a practical and hopeful path toward shared prosperity—one that benefits producers, consumers, and businesses alike.

Whether you are an everyday shopper or a changemaker looking to align your values with your spending, this book offers a compelling reminder that thoughtful purchasing decisions truly do matter—and that together, small choices can lead to meaningful global impact.

We hope you’re as excited as we are to dive into Every Purchase Matters, and we look forward to discussing this title with you at our next meeting.