Whether we are aware of it or not, hints of modern-day slavery are prevalent in many areas of the average American’s life.

Whether shopping in clothing stories or supermarkets, as consumers it’s important to be aware of our purchases, and what enterprises our money is actually fueling. One way this may be achieved is by helping educate our friends, neighbors, co-workers and family members on the conditions goods are made under.

The following three companies have created organizations that promote the sale of fair trade goods, and guarantee those who create them, as well as their families, have access to education and health care.

One of the largest fair trade organization’s in the world, Ten Thousand Villages, derives its name from a Mahatma Gandhi quote:

“…India is not to be found in its few cities but in the 700,000 villages…we have hardly ever paused to inquire if these folks get sufficient to eat and clothe themselves with.”

The non-profit program strives to help artists in dozens of countries by selling their  handmade gifts worldwide. TTV helps pay for food, education, health care and housing for artists who would otherwise be unemployed or working under oppressive conditions.

Theo Chocolate, the first and only organic and Fair Trade chocolate factory in the United States,  works to provide a product that is both environmentally and ethically responsible. Theo Chocolate ensures employees earn fair living wages and have access to health care and education for their families. It also uses green energy sources to power its factories.

Original Good looks to change consumerism by asking every consumer to be more responsible with how they spend their money.  The product brand from World of Good, Inc. aims to provide consumers with products that are created under fair conditions by artists worldwide.