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Learning Research Service Volunteer Engagement

For close to 25 years, Dr. John Burka, a professor of Pharmacology in the Department of Biomedical Sciences, has donated his time and skills to help others help themselves. John is the co-ordinator of Ten Thousand Villages craft sale at UPEI, a three-day event that involves close to 50 volunteers and hundreds of hours of planning and set-up. He is also the publicity person for six annual sales across the province, which generated $76,000 in 2008.

Ten Thousand Villages sells handicrafts made by groups of artisans from 30 developing countries. Items are made in home workshops in small-group settings. Co-operatives, and eventually small businesses, are developed. The artisans are paid a fair price for their products, which is the essence of fair trade and sustainable development.