Whether it’s volunteering at a local charity or performing an act of kindness for a friend, giving just feels good – which is why these gifts are sure to put an extra spring in every shopper’s step. Each of these brands available at Dallas Market Center contributes a portion of its proceeds to an important cause such as breast cancer awareness or anti-bullying initiatives, so you can walk away from your next visit to market with a quality product and a meaningful story.
CAUS by Mary Square
This line of stainless steel drinkwear donates 25% of all proceeds to one of four causes: clean drinking water, pet rescue and adoption, crisis and disaster relief and efforts to stop human trafficking. CAUS bottles and tumblers are double-walled, vacuum-insulated and non-slip, with a shatterproof lid – and they’re beautifully bright, to boot.
“I wanted a brand that would bring people together to fight for a common cause,” says Kelly Shiley, CEO. “Through a lot of prayer and reflection, CAUS was born with a clear dedication to making a difference in the world.”
Source CAUS by Mary Square at Roadrunners, TM 1521
Sweet Shop USA
Sweet Shop USA, the largest handmade chocolate manufacturer in the country, recently launched the Water for Chocolate collection. A portion of proceeds will benefit non-profit organizations that serve the African countries of Rwanda and Burundi. Currently, only 60% of Burundi citizens have access to safe water.
“By giving back, we’re not only helping this region, but we’re also creating awareness about the lack of fresh water that most countries take for granted,” says Hayden Luker, Technology and Marketing Manager.
Source Sweet Shop USA at the Gourmet Market, WTC 180
Vera Bradley
As part of its continuing support for breast cancer research, Vera Bradley, creates a new pattern each year to raise awareness. For 2019, it’s the Pretty Posies pattern. “We wanted to create a pattern that’s true to our brand heritage, yet also adds a nod to the Vera Bradley Foundation for Breast Cancer,” says Holly Ryan, Media Manager. “Included are iconic Vera Bradley flowers, joined by subtle pink ribbons to pay homage to the foundation.”
Since 1993, the Vera Bradley Foundation for Breast Cancer has raised over $32 million for breast cancer research. In addition to the pattern, the brand donates one million dollars directly to the foundation each year and offers a “round up at the register” initiative at all stores.
Source Vera Bradley at WTC 13408
Boymom
When Amy Williams, President and Co-Founder of Boymom, was raising her two boys, she realized nothing in the market celebrated the specific journey of mothers raising young men. Thus, Boymom was born. The line, which centers around soft graphic tees, has since expanded to celebrate mothers of all types, including those with fur babies.
Williams knew she wanted Boymom to benefit children directly, which is why she contributes a percentage of proceeds to orphanages in Southeast Asia. “These orphanages are now self-sustaining, growing and plowing their own rice crops,” she says. “One year, our donation went towards a mule to pull their plow. It’s been a blessing to be a part of something so important.”
Source Boymom at TM 1032 and WTC 13-2212
WordsCount
Though WordsCount began as a bullying prevention program, founder Iliana Cogan was inspired to take her students’ affirmations and create a product that showcased them. The resulting line includes tanks, tees and sweatshirts, each promoting a culture of kindness through feel-good words and phrases such as “warrior,” “grateful,” and “I believe in respect.”
“We live in a world full of negativity, but we believe people are good at heart,” Cogan says. “Sometimes, you have to be reminded.” Proceeds from the line benefit bullying prevention and kindness initiatives.
Source WordsCount at the Jason Zelcer Showroom, WTC 15636
P.J. Salvage
When pajama line P.J. Salvage began receiving emails from cancer survivors saying their leisurewear helped them get through a tough time, they knew they had to get more involved. “A thread really linked up for us, and we realized that the tactile feeling of comfort and leisure and coziness had healing properties,” says Maia Anderson, VP of Marketing & International.
Now, the brand is creating exclusive product designed specifically with and for Stand Up To Cancer.
P.J. Salvage will also be making a $25,000 donation over the next two years to support the cause.
Source P.J. Salvage at Deanne Wilde, WTC 15434