communityspotlight
Native Grace
by M. J. English
A
rmchair musings don’t come
“I invite browsing shoppers to sit and enjoy a cup of freshly
close to Donna Bollinger’s
idea of world travel. The owner
brewed tea,” says Donna Bollinger, owner of Native Grace.
of a new retail space in downtown
Roanoke, Bollinger often reflects on Shelves at Native Grace reflect she says. A cuppa is often accompa-
memories and life lessons learned dur- Bollinger’s passion and commitment to nied with a piece of chocolate cherry
ing her 15 years of globe-hopping with Fair Trade issues, generously laden with biscotti or zucchini bread with lemon,
nonprofits and faith-based organiza- everything from chocolates to jewelry, masterminded by the local bakers at
tions, while stocking the shelves of Na- handcrafts and clothing. Although she Nico’s Ristorante & Café.
tive Grace, her Fair Trade shop, located carefully selects the majority of her Bollinger also encourages educa-
just around the corner from the popular retail items from around the world, she tion and discussion at her place of Na-
Farmers’ Market. also produces original fabric creations, tive Grace. A whole section is stocked
Bollinger admits that Native Grace from skirts to children’s clothing, imagi- with books and materials that give
has been brewing in her imagination natively crafted from appealing textiles visitors an opportunity to learn more
for more than a decade. The natural she orders. about Fair Trade, an accelerating social
transition from vision to retail reality Colorful, textural fabrics beckon movement and market-based approach
became its own grace-filled adventure the beholder; the slightest touch usually to promoting sustainability through
after Bollinger developed a deep com- prompts questions about their origin empowering producers in developing
mitment to international work and a and creator. Bollinger readily shares countries. She provides a cozy space
fascination with world cultures. a wealth of knowledge, adding to the for small groups to meet and serves tea
delight of the shopping experience. during gatherings.
An additional pleasure awaits in Sharing her vision of a better world
the form of exotic teas, sold by the graced by dedication to sustainable en-
ounce and brewed by the cup or the vironments and social justice makes life
pot in the back of the store. Bollinger’s worth living for this well-traveled com-
selection of Fair Trade teas soothe, ener- munity citizen. New and old friends find
gize and amuse. the ambience she creates an intriguing
“I invite browsing shoppers to sit and inviting place to come together.
and enjoy a cup of freshly brewed tea,”
For more information, call
Donna Bollinger,
540-345-4519. Native Grace is located
owner of Native Grace
at 108 Church St. S.E., in Roanoke.
 Southwestern Virginia
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