Community Shops, or cShops, is an Internet storefront that allows grassroots communities to sell their goods online, gives consumers a chance to participate in social change, and provides an opportunity for volunteers to increase the charity in their lives.

To enter any of these stores, that contain products from the participating non-profit organizations, click on one of the links above.

Traditionally, nonprofit organizations working in developing countries have very limited markets for the art and handicrafts produced by participants in their community development programs. Usually, sales are limited to small on-site shops that see very few visitors. However, the Internet opens up a new sales channel that allows the nonprofits to go beyond the local community and reach the entire world. It also allows consumers everywhere to learn about the nonprofit organizations, the community development programs they operate, and the people they benefit, thereby empowering the consumers to take action for the causes they wish to support.

cShops is also an experiment in service -- created and operated entirely by volunteers. [ about us ]

If you shop on our store, if you read a story of a volunteer lending a hand or a child needing support, if you are moved to perform a single act of compassion, we will consider this portal a success!