In an age where consumerism dominates our lives, many of us often find ourselves in a constant cycle of buying and discarding products. However, a new wave of socially conscious companies is emerging, redefining the way we view commerce. These companies are not just about making profits; they’re dedicated to giving back to the community, the environment, and those in need. So this holiday season, let’s explore some of the companies that are making a difference by donating a portion of their earnings or committing to various social and environmental causes.
Bombas
You might be familiar with Bombas ads – with each purchase of a pair of their socks, they donate a pair to those in need, particularly to overnight shelters and rehabilitation centers. This holiday-themed sock gift box features a pair adorned with a scarf-wearing penguin and another featuring a beanie-topped narwhal.
TOMS
You can’t have socks without shoes! TOMS, a well-known footwear and eyewear brand, has made a name for itself by pioneering the “One for One” business model. For every pair of shoes or eyeglasses sold, TOMS donates a pair to a person in need. This simple idea has had a profound impact, providing shoes to children in impoverished communities and eyeglasses to those who lack access to proper vision care. To date, TOMS has given away over 100 million pairs of shoes.
California Born
Celebrity hair stylist, Jason Schneidman, knows what it’s like hitting rock bottom – because he’s been there. He believes a haircut can change a life for someone living on the streets. Not only are his hair products sustainably packaged and incredible to use, his foundation is creating a community to help people get off the streets, and back on their feet. Check out his styling product Days Of Dirt – a great stocking stuffer for those looking for “live in” hair! Part of the product’s proceeds goes to help get people off the streets and break addictions to drugs and alcohol.
Patagonia
Patagonia, an outdoor clothing and gear company, is a champion of sustainability and environmental responsibility. The company donates a percentage of its profits to environmental causes and actively supports initiatives to combat climate change, protect wild places, and promote sustainable farming practices. They even encourage their customers to repair, reuse, and recycle their products to reduce their environmental footprint.
Warby Parker
Warby Parker is a trailblazer in the eyewear industry, offering affordable, stylish glasses. Similar to TOMS, for every pair of glasses sold, Warby Parker donates a pair to someone in need. Through their “Buy a Pair, Give a Pair” program, they have distributed millions of glasses to individuals in underserved communities around the world.
The Body Shop
The Body Shop, a cosmetics and skincare brand, has long been a vocal advocate for animal rights and environmental conservation. They actively campaign against animal testing and source their ingredients sustainably. The Body Shop also supports various charitable initiatives, such as the fight against domestic violence and protecting the world’s biodiversity.
Starbucks
Starbucks, the global coffee giant, has set ambitious sustainability goals, such as ethically sourcing their coffee, reducing waste, and conserving water. They also support local communities through initiatives like The Starbucks Foundation, which invests in education, access to clean water, and disaster-relief programs.
War Child
War Child, an apparel company, takes a unique approach to giving back. With each purchase of their products, they provide support to children affected by conflict. With the current climate in the middle east, this is especially important now. War Child helps with education, psychosocial support, and gives opportunities for a better future. Customers can choose the specific project they want to support with their purchase.
Ten Thousand Villages
Although this platform lacks a dedicated “give back” program, Ten Thousand Villages is dedicated to providing opportunities for artisans and communities that typically lack fair market access for their products. Their enduring partnerships are truly transforming the lives of numerous communities. It’s also a fantastic place to discover unique gifts!
The Giving Keys
This online store creates unique, repurposed key-based jewelry. They employ individuals transitioning out of homelessness and donate a portion of their profits to support employment and housing for people in need.
These companies are leading the way in demonstrating that businesses can be a force for good. By giving back to the community, environment, or those in need, they are changing the way we view consumption and commerce. When you choose to support such companies, your purchases become a powerful tool for creating positive change in the world. So, the next time you shop, consider buying from one of these socially conscious companies and be a part of the movement to make the world a better place, one purchase at a time.
