Support

Community Development Support Services (CDSS) - As part of its regular licensing program, GiFFT offers special support services which help producer communities make optimal use of their social premium funds. These support services are provided on-site and in-person by qualified and specially-trained indigenous personnel. These personnel regularly visit the community development projects in the producer communities. They work with the local leaders to make sure that the social premium funds are being used properly and accountably. They also provide training and rudimentary technical support, and help link the producer communities to financing and to helpful external resources and networks. This support enhances the producers' agricultural production and their community development efforts.

When support personnel make their visits, they document the progress of the community development project through progress reports, photos, and videoclips. These reports, photos, and videoclips are uploaded to GiFFT's Community Development Support Services (CDSS) web portal. Anyone with access to the internet can see and hear the progress that is being made in the producer communities. This is cost-effective solution for manufacturers and others who want transparent accountability and updates concerning the use of social premium funds.

Volunteer Programs
GiFFT plans to develop volunteer programs that will engage college-age youth in work and study to support the fair trade movement. For example, study tours are planned where students will live, work and learn with producers in their communities in return for college credit. Other exciting volunteer opportunities are also being planned - for people of all ages. These volunteer programs will support GiFFT's fair trade activities around the world.