Our History

Founded in 1987 by Holly Burkhalter, with support from her husband, Larry, and a dedicated group of friends, Worldly Goods emerged from a vision of promoting ethical consumerism and supporting marginalized artisans worldwide. Initially sponsored by the Ames Mennonite Church, the store was entirely run by passionate volunteers from various faith organizations in the Ames area.

The store’s humble beginnings trace back to the Campustown Office of Mennonite Pastor Eldon Epp, which opened in the fall of 1987. In 1991, Worldly Goods moved to 412 Main Street, occupying the basement space below Roy’s TV. As the community’s support grew, the store hired its first paid manager in 1994, marking a shift toward a more sustainable operation.

In 1997, Worldly Goods established its long-term home at 223 Main Street, a trusted presence in downtown Ames. The early 2000s brought technological advancements when Greg Bruna, then-assistant manager, introduced barcode scanning for inventory management—modernizing operations while retaining the store’s grassroots essence.

From the late 1990s to the late 2000s, Worldly Goods flourished as a community-driven initiative, with nearly 80 committed volunteers supporting store operations and contributing in diverse ways. These dedicated individuals assisted with sales and helped with window decorations, shop organizing, and even constructing shelving to enhance the store’s atmosphere. This robust volunteer base exemplified the spirit of shared responsibility and a deep commitment to the fair-trade mission.

Worldly Goods has remained a beacon for fair trade principles, community engagement, and ethical sourcing throughout its journey. It stands as a symbol of compassionate consumerism, dedicated to uplifting artisans and fostering cultural appreciation.