Back to School Favorites from Companies That Give Back

Today we pulled together 5 more companies that have products we love, but that also have a mission we love. They are all so focused on giving back to communities around the globe and have done a great job doing so! Here are a few of our favorite companies that give back that we want to shine a light on this month. Plus, these products are all great back to school picks!

1. Krochet Kids

Heading back-to-school and into cooler weather, Krochet Kids has everything we could want…  From beanies and backpacks to their cozy scarfs and accessories, we’re sure you’ll love their stuff! What’s even better, though, is how focused this company is on driving social change. They started as three high school guys who thought crochet was cooler than it actually was. Now, they employ & empower people in developing countries to create amazing products, allowing opportunities for education and working toward poverty alleviation. Want to love them even more? Every product is hand-signed by its maker, reminding you just how hopeful and personal their work is.

2. STATE Bags

Many socially-minded companies have a product and then seek to meet a need with it. STATE Bags, however, saw a need and then sought to make a product for it. It was founded by a husband and wife duo whose love for fashion and their passion for people drive their work. The founders, Scot and Jacqueline Tatelman, worked with kids in at-risk neighborhoods where they saw too many kids carrying their belongings to school in a trash bag. Now, they have a variety of backpacks, totes, and even some fun patches that they sell one-for-one. They not only give (fashionable) school supply-backpacks to kids, but they also hold STATE Bag Drop Events, where they lead motivational rallies, pushing students to succeed and communities to thrive. With eye-catching styles and fabrics and collaborations with brands you already love, we know you’ll be picking up one of their products soon.

3. Ubuntu Made

The word ubuntu means “I am because we are,” and Ubuntu Made truly is on a mission to connect people around the world by creating beautiful goods and building communities in developing countries. Since its inception, the thriving brand has grown in popularity, as well as social effectiveness. We love this idea of buying things that make a difference, and we think you’ll love their beautiful products! The beaded bracelets and leather totes stand out as perfect fall staples, and the fold over travel pouches will make great holiday gifts. With each purchase supporting support employment, education, and healthcare in communities in Kenya, what’s not to like?

4. Misha + Puff

5. Apolis 

These bags are popping up everywhere we go. Apolis is all about looking at the world from a broad perspective, but investing in communities in small ways, making a big impact. The company makes everything from apparel and accessories to luggage and bags like the one above. Their custom market bag has gotten so popular lately, and for good reason! Not only are they the perfect mix of rustic and new, but they can be customized to say whatever you want. They source and manufacture locally in regions in Africa, Asia, South America, and even the U.S.. They are also so faithful to their model of “advocacy through industry.” Apolis understands that economic development leads to empowerment. We want to empower communities while carrying these trendy products.

We want to hear about the socially conscious companies you love! Tell us about your favorites in the comments.