When I was in Graduate School we studied the concept of Consumption Philanthropy. This is the practice of a company giving away a certain portion of their proceeds to a nonprofit organization, or giving a consumable good to a underserved population. This is often referred to as the TOMS model.
Consumption Philanthropy can be seen as controversial. it is viewed as an inconsistent way to help Nonprofit organizations. Critics also Argue that this model of charity does not actually educate the consumer about the population/ cause that is in need.
I wanted to bring up the argument against Consumption Philanthropy before I stated why I stand behind it.
First, it is far easier to not do something than to do something. The companies that are giving back are doing something.
Secondly, when a company decides to give back they taking a stand on an issue. This could potentially alienate customers who feel they do not want their money going to that chosen cause. We have to remember that charitable giving in itself is controversial.
Finally, I truly believe people do not hear the words “Thank you” enough. That is why I am highlighting companies Each Month that are giving back because I feel they deserve a ‘Thank you.”
Designers Doing Good- December 2020
ABLE: The company started when the founders met women in Ethiopia coming out the commercial sex industry who were in need of work. The women were trained to make scarves and they sold 4,000 scarves in two months. Today, ABLE is a lifestyle brand who employee base is 95% female. ABLE also created an evaluation system called ACCOUNTABLE which evaluated their manufacturing partners. Less than 2% fashion workers are paid a living wage and ABLE has worked very closely to make sure their partners are paying their employees a livable, fair wage.
SOKO: A certified B-Corp who connects marginalized female Kenyan artists with the global marketplace. Through the use of technology SOKO can work with female Kenyan artists living in remote places. SOKO coined the term Virtual Economy for their practice of a decentralized marketplace. The materials used by SOKO artisans are sustainably sourced and are natural elements in Kenya. I have purchased a few different items from SOKO and each piece is absolutely beautiful.
Clare V.: In 2020, Clare V. has donated over $90,000 to a variety of causes, as well as 7,350 makes to frontline workers. Clare V. currently has two special edition lines of clothing and accessories whose proceeds go to Every Mother Counts and Planned Parenthood.
