Frequently Asked Questions

Why did we change our name? 

Ten Thousand Villages Lincoln is now Handspoken Fair Trade. As the national Ten Thousand Villages network restructures, stores like ours have been invited to step into their own identity while continuing to carry the fair trade movement forward.

We chose the name Handspoken because it captures what we believe: that every item we offer carries the voice of its maker. A voice shaped by culture, creativity, and care—and made visible through fair trade.

While our name has changed, our purpose has not. We remain deeply committed to supporting artisans and farmers around the world through ethically sourced, fairly traded goods that promote dignity, equity, and sustainability.

Are you still a nonprofit store? 

Yes! We've been a registered 501(c)(3) organization since our founding and continue to be governed by a local, Lincoln-based board of directors.

Has your mission changed? 

No. Our name has changed but our values remain the same. We bring together global and local communities through fair trade, ensuring that every purchase supports livelihoods rooted in equity, sustainability, and dignity for all.

Will you continue to sell Ten Thousand Villages Products?

Yes! All of your favorite Ten Thousand Villages products like the Kenyan Wedding Sculpture and Vegetable Soaps from India are still available in our store. We also offer wonderful goods from a number of other fair trade partners, including SERRV, Upavim and Starfish Project. 

Can I still place an order for Ten Thousand Villages items? 

Yes! If the item is in stock and available to us through Ten Thousand Villages, we’re happy to place a special order for you.

Will you still  honor other Ten Thousand Villages National promotions? 

Yes and no. We mark down our Ten Thousand Villages items when they are moved to clearance on their website. However, we are no longer able to participate in Ten Thousand Villages promotions or offers. Under our new name Handspoken, we now run our own promotions and sales throughout the year, so we encourage you to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, or sign up for our newsletter to stay in the loop!

Can I still use my FiveStars rewards? 

Yes! Points earned in-store are still valid at Handspoken, even if they were earned under our previous name.

Can I purchase gift cards? 

Yes! Gift cards redeemable here at Handspoken are available for purchase both in-store and online.

Can I buy or use my Ten Thousand Villages gift cards here?  

Yes—for now. We are currently able to accept Ten Thousand Villages gift cards, but that will change in the near future. We strongly encourage you to redeem any remaining balances soon, while we are still able to accept them.