We usually see short-term CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) projects here and there from brands that want to give back to the community. However, it’s not common for us to see those that continuously give back through different avenues all year long. This is why footwear and lifestyle brand TOMS Philippines caught our attention during the launch of their Stand for Tomorrow initiative – the Stand for Courage movement, in partnership with global changemaker Arianna Cowper.
Stand for Tomorrow
Since its 2006 launch, TOMS has donated one pair of shoes to a child in a developing nation for every pair sold to consumers as part of their One for One model, delivering a staggering 93 million pairs to date. Through additional fundraising, TOMS has also provided 740,000 sight restorations and 720,000 weeks of safe water to communities in need around the world!
The launch of Stand for Tomorrow will see TOMS’ impact reach beyond the existing giving model, by partnering with powerful local changemakers who take a stand on issues that matter. The initiative aims to create a broader impact through addressing some of the most pressing issues of our time, initiating project-based investments with local non-profits and changemakers across the globe.
TOMS Philippines Stand for Tomorrow was launched along with Arianna Cowper, who Stand for Courage, and the new Venice Collection at the SM Mega Fashion Hall.
The event was reminiscent of the birthplace of TOMS, Venice, where culture is king and inspiration is queen. Activities such as the freedom wall and the barefoot walk encouraged visitors to express themselves and understand the causes supported by TOMS. We tried this ourselves and we’d have to be honest that it’s not easy to do it for a few minutes! Just imagine what children had to go through just to get clean water.
Stand for Courage with Arianna Cowper
Arianna Cowper, a young Filipina model, is a dedicated volunteer at New Beginnings Program under CRIBS Foundation, a home for young women who are working to overcome sexual abuses.
“I strongly believe that every child has the right to be protected and safe from sexual abuse. I have been volunteering to New Cribs to help them recover. I wanted to be a voice that help these children to have more support because I know there are more out there that needs help and that they can get help. I am proud that I can share this advocacy with TOMS through this campaign and their new collection,” shares Ariana. “I chose CRIBS Foundation as I also share the vision of a world free from abuse and I would like everyone to stand for a good cause and have the courage to take it.”
Venice Collection
Venice is the birthplace of TOMS. It’s a city of color, hip culture, and where different views meet with artists and activists striving for progress. The collection showcases a refreshing take on their classic and offers a bold selection with chunky, sneaker-like cupsoles on the iconic silhouettes, the Alpargata, Cordones and Botas. Adding attitude are spirited vignettes featuring neon, iridescence, ’90s flair, and funky, statement-making platforms.
The Venice Collection is available in TOMS stores at Megamall, Powerplant Mall, and Glorietta 4. For more details about how you can give back and help, visit TOMS stores nationwide. For more details about brands that continuously give back, follow Manila Millennial on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram!