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From the outside, Plowsharing Crafts is unassuming. It looks similar to many of the other pleasantly artistic stores that the Loop plays host to. But two minutes into a conversation with Rich Howard-Willms, the manager of the store, I knew that the store was about something bigger than providing unique, decorative objects for St. Louisans.

I appreciate people who are passionate about their work, and Rich certainly fits into that category. He told me how Plowsharing Crafts has been helping crafts people in Third World countries for over 20 years. A large portion of what the item sells for here in the non-for-profit store goes back to the person who made the product. (They would otherwise be extremely underpaid for their labor.) Other than Rich, the store is run by volunteers. If you're interesting in helping out this great cause, click here. 

Besides home decor and gifts, Plowsharing Crafts has coffee, clothing, jewlery and countless other interesting pieces from all over the world. While I was there, I bought a really cool silver and black ring. I bought it because it was reasonably priced and I liked it, but let me tell you, it also felt good to know that I was helping make a difference to a hard-working crafts person half a world away.

Click on the Featured Video tab to learn more about the mission behind this impressive store.