GIFt Partnerships
Giving It Forward Together (GIFt) is an important value with us as we strive to build a higher level of conscious capitalism and #LeadWithGratitude. We believe in the 4Ps of "doing well by doing better" - People, Planet, Profits & Purpose. And we know that organizational development around social responsibility is a journey, a continuous process of self-improvement with an eye on building a culture that drives greater impact in and on the world around us. As our starting point, AlikiDesigns is committed to:
- transparency and accountability: our GIFt program is calculated on the price you pay, not on the proceeds of any given transaction (which are customarily undisclosed to consumers). As an AlikiDesigns customer, we want you want to know exactly how many dollars are being given to our worthy partnership endeavors. We want you to feel like you are a partner on the front-end... and the back-end! Strategically, we make business decisions that keep overhead low. Much of what we do is just-in-time, and we are picky with our business/retail partners.
- the environment: we strive to minimize waste and excessive packaging. Yes, the extra big box -with all the stuffing, wrapping, bows, bells and whistles- does look nice. We agree. But is it worth the cost to the environment when too often all that packaging ends up in the trash and in a landfill? Not to mention, you pay for all that packaging in the price of the product. Our packaging is simple: One card with the essence/meaning/intention of the design, which we hope you keep as a reminder of what you put out in the world; and a small and reusable organza baggie.
- people & society: as we build our staff, we are striving to honor equality, diversity of thought, and merit-based growth, period.
And as for our partnerships, well, we think they are awesome - impactful, thoughtful, hardworking, efficient and making a difference - right here, right now. We strive to carry three partnerships at a time. Why three? Three is a lucky number. Also, we believe in the power of adding up 1 + 1 = 3. Yes, there is exponential gain when we collaborate to make a difference! We give a percentage of the price you pay for our designs; we do not take any administration fee or percentage share. 100% of the calculated amount goes to our partnerships.
AlikiOne designs: 11% GIFt
Partnerships for Change & Lama Tenzin's work with Orphans in the Indian Himalayas
Lama Tenzin Choegyal from the Dolpo Region of the Himalayas is an unassuming hero for lost and forgotten children. He is known to trek 10 hours/day for 20 – 30 days while climbing over altitudes of 18,000 feet of treacherous conditions. He finds the children who have been cast from their homes due to spiritual beliefs or neglect and brings them to his orphanage. There, he has created a safe and loving home where they grow and flourish, and have access to private school education and professional opportunities. He is embarking on a new project called the “PinkPad.” Women in the villages are often sent away during their menses and have no access to any comforts. He is raising money for the equipment to manufacture and package supplies that the girls at the orphanage will help design and distribute. Each PinkPad will be a kit that includes one year’s worth of monthly supplies for each girl or woman in the villages, and an environmentally-sensitive disposal program. Each GIFt goes toward the production of PinkPads.
Aliki Originals collections: 11% GIFt
Environmental Charter Schools' “Bridging the Gap” Scholarship
Environmental Charter Schools (ECS) expands the possibilities for its high school students to attend college. This support recognizes that a small investment can prove to make a significant impact on a student’s higher education journey. The Board of Directors works tirelessly to build bridges and foster relationships on behalf of ECS. The Board celebrates the recipient’s ability to inspire others through their personal story, passion and willingness to lead by example. This scholarship is awarded to two ECS high school graduate recipients each year. These students have overcome challenges in their environment and achieved their full academic and personal potential. The students come from the south Los Angeles communities of Lawndale, Hawthorne, Inglewood, Lennox and Gardena. More than 86% of all ECS students qualify for the federal free or reduced-price meals program for families at or living close to the poverty line.
Although 96% of ECS' high school graduates are accepted to a four-year college or university, oftentimes financial limitations keep students from attending a university in which they were accepted admission. By opening eligibility requirements for students who may not qualify for traditional scholarships, this funding can determine whether an ECS graduate may be able to afford the cost of a four-year university and enroll in college.
AlikiSurf designs: 11% GIFt
Manhattan Beach's Roundhouse Aquarium
One of the central features in Manhattan Beach, this iconic aquarium was recently renovated, and is one of the finest places for kids and adults to learn about the ocean. With viewing and touch tanks, the Roundhouse runs several educational programs on-site, and partners with schools to bring children to the beach for field trips. For some students this might be the first time visiting the beach. They also love to take their sea creatures for field trips to schools. The Roundhouse prides itself on increasing education about the impact we all have on the ocean, which in turns affects our day-to-day environment. Each GIFt goes toward a starfish’s field trip expenses to visit a school.
Note: All of our GIFts are processed at year end. (Also note: not in fine print.)