Connect for a common cause

For the past two months, we've been emphasizing the importance of simplifying. To solve global environmental crises, 1% for the Planet simplifies giving back to our planet. But, how do we do it?

Sure, we could say we accelerate smart environmental giving. We amplify the impact of grassroots organizations. It's true, we do all those things. But, to put it simply, we bring people together.

Allow us to introduce our next actionable theme: Connect.

1% for the Planet is a coalition of like-minded nonprofits, individuals and businesses working together to solve our planet's most pressing issues. What's our secret? Strong, authentic connections.

We encourage businesses and individuals to connect with nature, connect with a cause and connect with our community of members that are working together for a better, healthier planet.

Since 2002, we've directed over $200 million to environmental nonprofits in over 60 countries. However, we didn't do that alone. That $200 million represents the thousands of businesses, individuals, donors and environmental nonprofit organizations that came together for a common cause: our planet.

To start, our partnerships are at the heart of our model. We pair dynamic businesses and individuals with high-impact environmental nonprofits that align with their values.

Partnerships are paramount to the success of 1% for the Planet. So, when we advise businesses and individuals in choosing their nonprofit partners, we ensure that each grassroots organization not only makes the highest impact possible, but that their initiatives align with the goals and values of their 1% for the Planet member.

Why? Because we know that the most impactful partnerships and longest-standing relationships start with engaged members who are willing to roll up their sleeves and work side by side with their nonprofit partner(s) toward a common goal.

You might ask yourself: what does an American mattress company have in common with a women's center in rural Rwanda? Well, it turns out they're both passionate about eradicating gender inequality as a means of solving climate change.

Motivated by recent political events, 1% for the Planet member Avocado Green Mattress knew they wanted their 2018 nonprofit partner to benefit women. So, we connected them with our nonprofit partner, the Kula Project. As a result of their partnership, a women's center in Rwanda has been funded for an entire year. Learn more about their partnership here.

You might assume that a water bottle company would only want to partner with nonprofits that support water conservation. But, do you know what Klean Kanteen is ALSO passionate about? Connecting young people to the wonder and science of our world through environmental education. Beginning in 2008, Klean Kanteen's support of NatureBridge is one of our longest-standing partnerships.

Apartment Therapy is a home and decor website that inspires people to live a more beautiful and happy life at home. However, as a 1% for the Planet member, Apartment Therapy also inspires people to give back to our environment through their partnership with Peconic Land Trust and commitment to land conservation.

We're proud of the partnerships we create, but they're just the start of the 1% for the Planet connections. Throughout the year, our network of members comes together in many creative and collaborative ways to support our planet.

Last September, our New York steering committee organized a beach cleanup with business members Alyned Together, Tidal New York, Faherty Brand and nonprofit partner Surfrider Foundation. The result of this collaboration? 58 pounds of trash and over 2,500 tiny plastic pieces collected from the Fort Tilden shore. (Event photo below.)

On the West Coast, 1% for the Planet members Portland Design Works, Goodwell Co., Portland Bee Balm, Bambu and Brew Dr. Kombucha's Love worked together with our Portland steering committee to create a one-of-a-kind video encouraging the city to get involved in our movement!

This April, we'll host our biggest collaborative network event for the third consecutive year: Global Summit. From April 3-5 in Portland, OR, 1% for the Planet members will come together for our annual gathering of leaders in the environmental movement. Our Global Summit is an opportunity for members to share ideas and connect in new ways to move our planet forward.

We'll kick off this meeting of the minds with a special appearance and conversation with our co-founder, Yvon Chouinard to discuss our roots, our accomplishments, and most importantly, our future. Are you with us? We thought so. Your ticket to Global Summit can count toward your annual commitment. Email globalsummit@onepercentfortheplanet.org to reserve your spot!

Over the next two months, we'll highlight our theme of connect through partnership stories, network events, (including Global Summit!) and by showing how the everyday person can connect with our work and values, too. So, connect with us to follow along! And if you haven't already, connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube!