I'll admit I love shopping. One look in my closet and I can't even try to deny that one. It is important to remember that every time we spend money we aren't just deciding which items to buy, but we are also making decisions about which companies to support. I don't think I'll stop buying things anytime soon, so here are some companies that try to use some of their profits to make the world a better place.
1. Life Is Good
Ted Talk will make you feel like you can conquer the world. They also started the Life Is Good Kids Foundation in partnership with children's hospitals and organizations. A portion of the proceeds from every purchase made goes to help these kids in need.
2. Toms
Most people know that Toms gives away shoes to children in need, but they actually do so much more than that. Purchasing specific items from Toms collections will actually help benefit different causes ranging from eyesight to safe drinking water, to anti-bullying. It all started with shoes, and now they are trying to make as big of an impact as possible on a "one for one" basis.
3. Sand Cloud Towels
Before and after they got picked up by "Shark Tank," the owners of Sand Cloud have always had one goal in mind (besides making money of course), and that is to clean up our oceans. A percentage of every purchase from their website goes to beach and ocean clean up.
They also use their social media channels to promote education on ocean wildlife. The company recently announced their plans to become even more sustainable by crafting most of their garments and other products from recycled materials including cotton and plastic.
4. Newman's Own
This company goes above and beyond what most charitable companies do. They don't just give to charity, they give 100% of their profits to charitable causes, and they have since day one. To be clear, of course, there are business expenses like production, property, and employees.
Anything that is surplus after those expenses are paid is considered profit, and every penny of that profit goes towards helping others with emphasis on philanthropy, children with life-limiting conditions, and nutrition.
5. Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream
Everybody loves some Ben & Jerry's, but Ben & Jerry's loves to give back to their community. Since they're based in Vermont, most of the work with the Ben & Jerry's Foundation strives to give back to the people of Vermont. A portion of the profit from sales goes towards programs to improve the Vermont area and the environment. They also use the foundation to help support social justice.
Your dollars are like votes, vote for the companies that stand with your values. If I'm going to spend my money anyway, I'd rather spend it with companies that are trying to make the world a better place.
