The Donate Movement Matters


Levi Strauss & Co.
June 30, 2010

For every single article of clothing donated to Goodwill, consumers have another 30 articles that are ready for donation.

How’s that for a surprising fact?

At Goodwill, we’re trying to do something about that. It’s why we just launched the Donate Movement – to encourage you to donate your clothing and other items to Goodwill. Critical to the movement is telling you about the power of your donation and what it means for people and the planet.

You can even calculate the impact of a donation on the Donate Movement website!

Think about it. That pair of jeans does more good if someone else can wear it than just sitting in your closet or, worse yet, ending up as landfill. And the money we make by selling the jeans enables us to train and educate people around the world.

We’re betting on Donate Movement success in part due to partnerships with companies like Levi Strauss & Co.

Since I was a boy, I’ve worn Levi’s® jeans. In fact, I’ve been wearing them throughout my life – in high school, college and even today. (Though I have to admit I now wear Levi’s 550 Relaxed Fit.)

Still, I’ve always counted on Levi’s® jeans – and they’ve have always stood with me.

Levi’s is still coming through, demonstrating their social responsibility in an extraordinary way. And it’s no surprise, because their history and values reflect a commitment to innovation and community.

Levi Strauss & Co. recently introduced its Care Tag for the Planet, which tells consumers how to reduce the environmental impact after purchase – through washing in cold water, air drying, and, the part I like best, later donating them to Goodwill. This extends the life cycle of the clothing – benefitting people, communities and the planet.

It doesn’t matter what you donate – whether it’s a pair of Levi’s® jeans you’ve outgrown or a toy your child no longer plays with – our Donate Movement website will help you calculate the good that’ll come from it. Give it a try. I think you’ll be impressed!

Jim Closeup