We live in a global economy. Every day–our decisions from buying a shirt made in India to a kiwi from Australia–affect the world positively or negatively. So, we can no longer consume without consequence or responsibility. The coffee market is one of the most corrupt in our economy, yet many have no idea that their daily fix could be contributing to another's poverty. We must educate.

A farmer in Ethiopia grows the coffee plant, picks the berries, dries and shucks the bean, and receives only 20¢/lb. We buy that same coffee for $10-12/lb. Where did all the money go? The Fair Trade Federation has tried to change this injustice offering farmers $1.26/lb, but even this wage holds farmers in poverty. Evo is committed to offering our farmers substantially more than fair trade. We hope that coffee will provide them not only with subsistence but a means for advancement, choice, and opportunity.

While it's great to pay farmers more than fair trade, we must do more. That's why every bit of profit is returned to these farming communities to provide aid and rebuild healthy economic systems. Through micro-financing, education, and health initiatives, we seek to redistribute the wealth that has been stripped by corporate greed.

It is simply not enough to rebuild broken walls yet overlook broken lives. As a global family we are called to be in relationship–to take steps to break down cultural barriers and learn from each other. So whether it's simply eating a meal together and sharing stories, learning a bit of their language, or even trying out a day of coffee farming, we make every effort to connect with our farmers and their communities.