Behind the HeART

Our Mission:

Putting people and the planet before profits—giving you the opportunity to Shop with Intention and Gift with Purpose.

We source our products from Fair Trade Artisans in marginalized communities around the world. Fair Trade ensures fair wages, safe working conditions, environmental sustainability, and long-term economic growth. It’s a global movement rooted in transparency, respect, and a shared vision of justice and equity in trade—so artisans and farmers can thrive with dignity.

At World HeARTs, we offer a thoughtfully curated collection of Fair Trade global goods that nourish the soul—offering something for everyone from jewelry, fashion accessories, home goods, gifts, baby items, kitchen accessories, to delicious coffees, teas, chocolates, olive oils and more.

All handcrafted. All Fair Trade. All ethically and sustainably sourced. All fabulous.

Our Story:

In 2015, during a trip to Southeast Asia, the idea for World HeARTs Fair Trade was born. Inspired to leave behind the corporate world and build something more ethical and meaningful, Robin and Kurt serendipitously connected with like-minded individuals at a Fair Trade conference that same year.

After moving back to Oregon (Robin’s home state), World HeARTs was launched as a pop-up boutique in 2017. Late 2018, they opened their first store in Oregon City, and in 2022, expanded into a larger location in West Linn’s Historic Willamette Business District.

About Our Founders:

Robin, Owner and Co-Founder, developed a love for travel at a young age with her family traversing the US and spent a summer in Japan as an exchange student. She began her career in corporate retail, working for multinational companies and traveling extensively for business. Along the way, she witnessed both the good and the troubling sides of global manufacturing, particularly the impact on workers and the environment. Robin retired from the “corporate” world, disillusioned by the moral and ethics in an environment where the goal was driving profit to shareholders. In her free time, you will find Robin fulfilling her passion to serve the local community through volunteer work.  She serves as VP for the Historic Willamette Main Street Board of Directors, a member of of the Oregon City Woman's Club and a volunteer for Angels in the Outfield.  Robin and Kurt are both active in the local Oregon City and West Linn Chambers of Commerce.  

Kurt, Co-Founder and Chief Artisan Ambassador, brings a dynamic blend of corporate leadership and academic insight to World HeARTs. His career includes leading multinational organizations, and he later transitioned into academia, where he directed graduate-level programs in entrepreneurship and leadership. Kurt is passionate about bridging the gap between artisans and customers sharing the powerful stories behind each handcrafted piece and deepening the connection between global makers and mindful consumers. Kurt loves spending his free time hiking with their 2 dogs, fishing when time allows, tending to his garden, and spending time with family.