Apr 17, 2019 | Nonprofits, Shopping Tips, Tech
Growing your nonprofit…
It’s like being on a fun, frustrating, exhilarating, challenging, scary, exciting, loop-de-looping rollercoaster you (for some crazy reason) choose to stay on.
Sure, you could hop off at anytime, but you’re committed to the mission—and that’s what makes you so awesome!
For many nonprofits, social media is a big part of their growth strategy. But an additional, oft-overlooked aspect of growth is time management.
After all: You can grow the biggest social following in the world, but if you’re spending all your time on social media, how are you going to make time to do the world-changing work your followers are invested in seeing you do?
Social media scheduling apps to the rescue.
What is a social media scheduler?
Social media schedulers allow you to create lots of social content at once, assign times and dates to that content, and have the content posted to your social media accounts automatically at those times.
The idea is that, instead of spending time updating your social media accounts multiple times per week, you’ll save time by spending just 1 or 2 days a month writing all those posts out at once, after which you can spend the rest of the month doing the millions of other important things your nonprofit needs to do.
If you decide to try a scheduling platform, you and your team will find a content creation cadence that works best for you, whether that’s creating content once per week, once a month, or even quarterly.
Do I really need to fuss with social media in order to grow my nonprofit?
The short answer: Yes. Generally speaking, there’s a lot of value in leveraging social media for growth, as more and more people turn to social media to keep up with their favorite nonprofits’ events, activities, and fundraisers than ever before.
In the end, there’s no one Most Correct™ way to grow. Behind every nonprofit, big or small, there’s a different (inspiring!) story surrounding how they acquired their donor base.
4 Free Social Media Platforms We Love (And How to Use Them)
There are so many scheduling platforms out there. Some with tons of bells and whistles (and a big price tag.)
But we’re going to keep it simple and just stick 4 that have the option for free accounts. (Our platform is free—shouldn’t these be?)
- Zoho Social (our favorite)
- Hootsuite
- Later
- Buffer
Also, we’ve posted links to tutorials below each list of pros and cons. That way, if you’re at all worried about losing time fumbling around on these things due to a learning curve—well, don’t!
Why we like it:
- Unlike Hootsuite, you don’t need add-ons or extras to use some of the more popular social networks
- Built-in URL shortener (no need to navigate away to Bit.ly or Google’s URL shortener)
- Live previews of your content (so you’ll know what they look like before you post)
What we’re iffy about:
- Can be tricky to learn
- Can’t upload posts in bulk (must be done one at a time)
- If you want more than 3 people working together on the platform, it can get pretty pricey.
Tutorials: Note that these tutorials cover most of the features of Zoho Social, including some that aren’t in the free version, so look out for that. In any case, there are two we think you’ll want:
For the first one, New to Zoho Social, the “New to Zoho Social” section will probably be the most relevant. To see how to schedule and publish posts, you’ll want the publishing and scheduling overview.
Why we like it:
- Free version lets you manage a max of 3 accounts, but you aren’t limited to just Twitter and Facebook! LinkedIn, WordPress, and others are there too
- Pro version is only $10 a month
- Easy to see how your posts are performing and collect analytics data
What we’re iffy about:
- The pro version can get really tricky, according to some users (But “complicated” really just means “robust” and “flexible!”)
- Can’t respond to post comments via the platform or interact with followers—you’ll have to log into your social platforms individually to do that
- Posting to some social networks (like Pinterest) require “add-ons” or can even cost an additional fee
Tutorial: Hootsuite Beginner Tutorial – How To Manage Your Social Media Accounts
Why we like it:
- Popular among Instagrammers (though Twitter and Facebook are also there) it can help you curate a pretty Instagram feed!
- Provides a clear, birds-eye view of your posting calendar
- You can either post automatically or request a notification prior to a post going live, so you can “okay” it
What we’re iffy about:
- Not very intuitive (a tutorial is a must) and limited to Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter
- If you post to more than one social account (ie., you have two Twitter accounts) you have to log in again to post to the other one
- Free version only lets you schedule about 2 weeks of posts
Tutorial: Full Demo of Later – Again, very Instagram heavy. But they get into Twitter and Facebook about 4 minutes and 30 seconds in.
Why we like it:
- Free for up to 3 social media accounts, including most social accounts (like Pinterest)
- Easy to see how your posts are performing, and easy for other team members to come in and add posts
- Clean interface
What we’re iffy about:
- Can’t post to Instagram automatically (you have to “okay” it first)
- In spite of the clean, pleasing interface, some users report trouble figuring out how to use it without some help
- Team members can add posts, but you can’t discuss them or comment on them within the platform
- Upgraded version can be expensive for some teams at $99/month
Tutorials: Here’s a great walk-through straight from Buffer’s website. Additionally, this tutorial on Udemy is free (and great), but requires you to sign up.
When should you schedule your posts?
According to research:
- Facebook use increases on the weekends.
- For Instagram, Wednesdays around lunch and dinner time are highest.
- Weekends are actually the worst time to post on Twitter.
Our advice, though?
Prioritize engagement, and grow your donor base by creating content that people want to share, comment on, and react to.
For that, here’s some research-based advice:
- People are most inclined to share content from other people, brands, and organizations whom they feel a connection with. So craft your brand and your content as if you were an individual trying to make friends with a certain type of person.
- Take heart: You’re at an advantage. 84% of people say they share content as a way to support causes that mean something to them. So publish compelling stories about the work you’re doing, your needs, your progress, and your vision.
Don’t forget to take a few minutes here and there to reply to comments, engage in conversations with your followers, and share others’ content too.
How to promote your Giving Assistant fundraising page fast using your social media scheduler
Once you’re all set up with a social media scheduler you like, turn to your Giving Assistant dashboard. There, you’ll find lots of time-saving content you can easily copy and paste into your scheduled posts.
- Click Fundraising Tools, then Messaging on the left-hand side of your dashboard.
- Click Facebook (also great for Instagram captions) or Twitter, and cycle through the different messages available to you. Click “refresh” to see other caption options.
- Copy the messaging you want, then paste it into your social posts with your favorite images. You can also use a free web-based app like Canva to easily and quickly create graphics to attach to your posts!
Tip: Consider writing at least one original caption or Tweet promoting your Giving Assistant page—but this time, tell your followers how their cash back microdonations can add up to help you in big ways over time. Tell them what small donations of $2, $5, or $10 can do for you and the community or cause you serve.
Additionally, raise more by looking out for Giving Assistant deals (like these), coupons, or Double Cash Back events they might be interested in, and schedule those into your social media calendar as well.
Share the love (automatically)!
Social media schedulers make it even easier to raise more cash back donations by sharing your Giving Assistant fundraising page more often, and will ensure all your followers feel included, valued, and capable of getting involved on a regular basis—no matter how much time or money they might have.
Apr 17, 2019 | Shopping Tips
Did you know? Your nonprofit dashboard can do way more than just help you keep a record of the cash back donations you’ve raised.
It’s also a thoughtfully-designed (and ever-evolving) marketing hub, packed with shortcuts and time-savers for busy nonprofits like yours.
And let’s be honest—is there really such thing as a nonprofit that isn’t crunched for time?
In this article:
We’ll go over these 6 marketing tools in your dashboard:
- Tool #1: Your fundraising page
- Tool #2: Your fundraising page link
- Tool #3: Website assets
- Tool #4: Pre-written messaging
- Tool #5: “Thank you” email
- Tool #6: Donor emails
You’ll learn:
- What they are
- How they help you raise more
- How much time it takes to use each one (less than 5 minutes for each, on average!)
- Where to find it
Let’s get started!
Tool #1: Your fundraising page. Customize it to encourage donor confidence!
Already done this? Great! Move along to Tool #2, rock star.
What it is: Your fundraising page is where people go to sign up for Giving Assistant specifically to support your nonprofit.
This section of your dashboard is where you can go and customize this page with your nonprofit’s logo and an image or video you think best represents your mission.
When your supporters sign up through this page, their cash back donations are automatically set to 100%, and their nonprofit of choice is automatically set to yours.
How it helps you raise more: Potential donors visiting an uncustomized page will almost always pause and wonder if they’re at the right place, and will likely click away without signing up.
Adding your own media and messaging, however, assures them that it’s really you. More importantly, an appealing image and mission statement will move them to get involved by signing up—or even by sharing your fundraising page.
Time it takes: 2 to 5 minutes. Faster if you already know, and have quick access to, the images you want to use.
Where it is: On the left-hand side of your dashboard, click Fundraising Tools. The section to customize your fundraising page (My Fundraising Page) should pop up right away.
Tip: To display a 150-character mission statement on your fundraising page, head over to the left-hand side of your dashboard, click My Organization, and About Us. You’ll see the spot to write in your mission statement there, which will display on your page.
Tool #2: Your fundraising page link. Log in, copy it, and keep it handy!
What it is: This is the URL (link) to the fundraising page you customized in Tool #1.
How it helps: It enables faster, more frequent sharing of your page, so you can raise more. This is why we put it up front: so you don’t have to keep clicking around searching for it!
Time it takes: Literally a second or two. Copy it, and paste it wherever you want to put it: social posts, emails, texts to team members, friends, and family, fliers, cards, bumper stickers, your forehead…(okay, maybe not that last one…)
Where it is: Right when you log in to your dashboard, it’s front and center. Click Overview on the left-hand side to get back to it anytime.
Tip: This tool is all about quick and easy link-sharing, so here are two more ideas to help you keep that link handy without needing to login to your dashboard every time:
- Bookmark it: Copy this URL from your dashboard, paste it into your browser, and bookmark it like normal. You can also add it as a bookmark right on your browser’s toolbar. (If you’re using Chrome, do this by clicking Bookmarks at the top, then Bookmark Manager. On the left-hand side, the very top folder is Bookmarks Bar. Find your Giving Assistant link within your bookmarks, and drag it to this spot.)
- Text or email it to yourself: Copy the URL and send it to yourself in an email or a text. The next time you’re out and about and need to grab the link quickly, all you have to do is search for it on your phone, copy it, and share it!
Tool #3: Website assets. Add your Giving Assistant fundraising page link to your website in minutes—even if you don’t know how.
If you’ve already done this, move along to Tool #4. (WAIT! Give yourself a high five. Okay, now move along.)
What it is: This is where you’ll download graphics and copy the HTML code you’ll need to put a Giving Assistant link on your nonprofit’s website. Alternatively, you can use this section to request help with updating your website either from your webmaster or someone on our team.
Tip: This section is designed to make it fast and extra-easy to update your website with your Giving Assistant link, even if you don’t already have the know-how or media assets to do this on your own. We always encourage our nonprofits to share their Giving Assistant “donate-while-you-shop” fundraising opportunity on their website’s Donate or Ways to Give page.
How it helps: As a nonprofit that relies on donations to fulfill your vision, you know that fundraising requires connecting with potential donors in every possible way they might find you: from printed-out fliers, to social media and your website.
After all, you wouldn’t have a website without a page telling people how they can donate, right? Because you know asking for donations via one communications channel alone isn’t enough. Hundreds, if not thousands of people will navigate to your site to learn more about you, sometimes through a cold Google search.
Adding your Giving Assistant fundraising link to your Donate or Ways to Give page will help you raise more donations from a much wider swath of people, namely those who either feel connected to your mission but aren’t ready to make a straight donation, or those who want to donate but simply can fit it into their budget right now.
It’s a way of showing all your potential donors that there is something they can do, making them feel considered, included, and appreciated.
Additionally, this tool can help you raise more by saving you time.
Rather than spending an hour or more of your nonprofit’s precious fundraising time trying to find or create the media you want to use on your website to add your Giving Assistant page, or even trying to write out HTML yourself, you can download these assets and just copy and paste the code, or even quickly reach out to us or your webmaster for help, freeing you up to do other work while also nipping out some stress.
Time it takes: If you choose to use the tool to reach out to your webmaster, just seconds. If you have some tech know-how and want to DIY this, copying and pasting the code to your site takes under 3 minutes. If you want to walk through the process with us, set aside at least 15 minutes.
Where the tool is: Under Banners and Icons (there on the left-hand side of your dashboard under Fundraising Tools,) you’ll find everything you need.
More importantly, towards the top, you’ll find additional options if you want to get your fundraising page updated, but either don’t have the time to do it yourself or don’t know how to.
- For option 1 in the screencap above, all you need is your webmaster’s email address. You’ll be able to notify them and send them everything they need to update this page in just a minute or two.
- If you have a little bit more time to spare but still want help, use options 2 or 3: With option 2, we’ll walk through adding the link to your site together. With option 3, we’ll just do it for you!
What it is: Hundreds of prewritten messages you can quickly copy and paste into social media posts, emails, and more, so you can encourage more Giving Assistant sign-ups without having to rack your brain or stress yourself out trying to figure out what to say. Additionally, you can request custom copy that more closely matches your nonprofit’s voice if none of the messaging here works for you.
How it helps: It allows you to share your fundraising page more often, without wasting time writing captions out over and over.
Because again, making the most of Giving Assistant shouldn’t add a string of to-dos to your already long list of fundraising activities—or your marketing team’s.
Additionally, this copy was written by professional copywriters with best practices in mind, crafted to appeal to any audience and increase sign-ups.
Time it takes: A few seconds to copy and paste the messaging wherever you want it to go, up to 1-2 minutes if you need to spend a little time picking the messaging that’s right for you, or requesting custom copy.
Tip: Use social media schedulers like these to quickly schedule a bunch of reminders to your followers that they can shop, save, and support your mission. 😉
Where the tool is: In your dashboard, click Messaging under Fundraising Tools on the left-hand side.
- Under Your Website, you’ll find copy you can include alongside the link or image you’ve decided to upload to your official site’s Donate or Ways to Give page. You can easily copy and paste the text you want to your web developer, or copy the entire HTML code yourself if you’re a DIYer.
- Email and Letter has longer-form copy you can paste into emails, or even into snail-mail, printed letters.
- Facebook and Twitter are fantastic time-savers when you want to remind your social community to sign up and shop to benefit you. (Tip: You can also use this copy for Instagram captions if you want!)
- The last tabs, P2P Facebook and P2P Twitter, are especially for nonprofits who do peer-to-peer fundraising campaigns. Save your P2P campaigners time—and get them sharing their campaign page more often—by copying and pasting this messaging to them, and letting them know they can use this text if they aren’t sure what to say in their social media fundraising promotions.
If you don’t like the messaging you see right away, keep clicking “refresh” (below the generated messages) until you find some you like.
And if you want even more customized messaging, navigate to the top of this page where it says “Not sure what to write when sharing your page?” There, you can request custom copy from one of our team’s copywriters. They’ll take a look at your nonprofit’s website and do their best to match your organization’s tone of voice.
Tool #5: Thank you emails. Use your dashboard to send a custom, automatic “Thanks!” whenever someone shops and donates cash back.
What it is: A section where you can customize the “thank you” email shoppers receive when their purchase results in a donation to you.
How it helps: Research shows that thank you messages increase donor retention and boost repeat donations. Customizing this email shows your cash back donors that you’re paying attention, and that their cash back is actually making an impact on your mission. It also helps remind them to support you using Giving Assistant every time they shop.
Time it takes: As little as 1-2 minutes if you already have some text you can copy and paste into the box, and quick access to the images you want. Since there are only 150 characters available, doing this will still take less than 5 minutes if you need to write in some new messaging.
Where the tool is: Under Thank You Email (left side of the dashboard under Fundraising Tools).
What it is: A list of email addresses that shoppers have opted-in to share with you. Emails are easy to download as a spreadsheet that you can use to import the email addresses and zip them off to your marketing team.
Tip: If a user doesn’t opt-in to share their email address, you won’t see it here. When asking people to join Giving Assistant for you, consider encouraging them to opt-in to share their email address during sign-up as well.
How it helps: This basic, clear-cut list holds plenty of value for creative outreach that can help you increase cash back donations and donations in general, no matter how big or small your list is.
Here are a few ideas:
- Create a “cash-back-donors-only” email marketing segment: For example, you can use this segment to send these donors even more personalized thank yous and asking them to share your page with friends and family.
- Send encouragement and reminders to your cash back donors: You can also nudge this segment with more regular shopping reminders and encouragement. A quick visit to GivingAssistant.org will show you what deals are hot (and worth sharing!) right now.
Time it takes: 1-2 minutes to download and receive the spreadsheet and email it to your marketing team. If you’re a DIYer, factor in more time for adding the emails to your marketing list, segmenting, and coming up with messaging. (You can always reach out for help from us with this.)
Where the tool is: Click Reports, then Donors on the left-hand side of your dashboard to see the emails you’ve collected. To download this list, click Reports, then click (on the right) the red button that says Email Full Report.
Work smarter, not harder: Add your Giving Assistant page into the marketing calendar or strategies you’re already using
These tools are here to help you add Giving Assistant to your marketing practices with just a bit of quick copying and pasting. That way, you can cast a bigger net, enabling you to raise more and meet more goals, and keep the fun in fundraising—for both you and your community!
Plus, your dashboard keeps almost our entire nonprofit team just a click away, because we respond to any messages you send us on the chat box there. And we LOVE helping you!
Apr 5, 2019 | Holiday, Holiday Gift Guides, Shopping Tips
Regardless of your age, you are never too old to receive an Easter basket. The highly-anticipated assortments of goodies are part of a thousand-year plus tradition. And, there’s no right or wrong way to go about it. Stuffing baskets with jelly beans, chocolate, toys, bunnies, shades of pastel and other signs of spring are classic moves that have all stood the test of time.
However, if you’re looking for fun Easter basket ideas that help create extra special moments, take a look at some of our suggestions below.
1. A New Buddy for Some’bunny’
Browse the Bunnies by the Bay collection at Lord & Taylor to find a furry friend for the infant, baby or toddler in your life. Choose from many irresistibly-cute buddy blankets, stuffed animals, and plush rattles in the shape of bunnies and lambs. To make a gift basket for a slightly older tot, pair one of their three-piece gift sets (embroidered plush critter, board book, and canvas backpack) with a few sweet treats.
2. Egg-Cellent Confections
When nothing but chocolate eggs will do, check out See’s Candies to level up your Easter basket edibles. Amuse youngsters with milk chocolate Sweet Surprise Chicks eggs that crack open to reveal a solid white chocolate treat. You can shop single eggs or spring for the larger Easter Collection: four different chocolate egg flavors and a bag of fruity jelly beans. The company’s Easter-only Scotchmallow Eggs offer a mouthwatering combo of chocolate-covered caramel and honey marshmallow – a sought-after sweet for this time of the year.
3. Personalized Plush Peeps
You either love them or you don’t!
The colors and shapes of these sugar-dusted marshmallow bunnies and chicks (known as Peeps) have inspired many creative minds. Novelty items make awesome Easter basket fillers and there is no shortage of Peeps-related items sold on Etsy. Here, you can shop handmade standouts, such as a Chillin’ with my Peeps onesie for babies and new parents, personalized plush Peeps, wood home décor, and endless T-shirt designs for all ages.
4. Think Outside the Box
Not all Easter treats come in a basket! Toolboxes filled with brand new screwdrivers, pliers, wrenches and DIY gadgets work just as fine for handy fellas. Home Depot is a one-stop shop for all the things that’ll satisfy a jack of all trades. Think portable power tools, socket sets, laser levels, safety glasses, and any other small hand tools, like the digital Zircon Multi-Function Wall Scanner – an ideal accessory for Mr. Home Improvement.
5. Encourage Young Minds to Blossom
Don’t let personal reflection, poetic thoughts, and artistic creativity of today’s youth go to waste – give it a space to grow! Customizable notebooks, weekly/monthly planners, and 80-page journals from Minted provide just the right keepsake for tween and teen self-expression. Personalize the cover with their name, favorite saying, or photographs. There are literally hundreds of designs to consider, including modern, preppy, funny and vintage styles.
6. What a Sweet Surprise!
Imagine the look of surprise when your loved one finds a personalized piece of jewelry buried inside an Easter basket! The customizable Kendra Scott Reid Necklace lets you select the metal chain of your choice (gold, rose gold, rhodium or gunmetal) and stones, like the Peach Mother of Pearl, Purple Jade, Dichroic Glass, and Bronze Veined Turquoise Magnesite, which gives off beautifully energetic springtime vibes.
7. Pretty Pastels and Florals
Created exclusively for Macy’s, Martha Stewart brightens dining room tables with the appropriately-themed Easter Collection and the Pastel Open Stock Collection, which includes the Pink Bunny Spoon Rest. Choose from dinnerware sets, salad plates, cereal bowls, serving pieces and embroidered white cotton napkins featuring delicately-colorful, floral designs. Here’s a thought: mix and match pieces to create an unexpectedly unique, Easter gift basket for Grandma.
8. Numero UNO Basket Fillers
Card games, mini-board games, and travel-size versions of childhood classics not only keep children busy, but also stimulate their minds. Target is home to plenty of brainteasers, puzzles, and welcome distractions that easily add a fun, non-candy element to Easter baskets for kids like UNO. Stick with the original version or ramp up the level of competition with something new, like the double-sided deck(ed) out the challenge of UNO Flip!
9. A Berry Special Arrangement
Another way to avoid extreme sugar overloads is to opt for a healthy Easter basket alternative. Edible Arrangements works their magic with strawberries, pineapple, cantaloupe, honeydew, and grapes to create impressive displays of affection—and without all the artificial sugar! The company uses chocolate-drizzled strawberries and chocolate-dipped pineapple bunnies to liven up their Easter-themed fruit baskets, as seen in their ‘Easter Bunny Celebration,’ ‘Have a Hoppy Easter’, and ‘Easter Bunny Festival’ selections.
10. Give the Gift of Entertainment
Regardless of whether you have a house of Mickey Mouse, sports, or Walking Dead fans, here’s an Easter basket gift that is fun for the whole household… Bundle DIRECTV + AT&T internet for an epic alliance to keep the whole house entertained. Plus, get $250 in AT&T Visa® Reward Cards with qualifying TV and Internet when you order online.
Awesome Easter Basket Ideas for All Ages
Easter gift baskets help celebrate every special occasion, holiday, and milestone imaginable. If you’re looking to create your own using the brands and products you love most – download our Giving Assistant Button and we’ll connect you to exclusive opportunities to save money.
![6 Ways to Spruce Up Your Home for Spring [The Home Depot]](https://ye5tydp7g73esyga3o4afodg-wpengine.netdna-ssl.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/the-home-depot.jpg)
Mar 12, 2019 | Cash Back Offers
Spring is just around the corner, and with it comes the incentive to refresh and spruce up home décor. A complete overhaul isn’t necessary to make a real difference. Sometimes, the smallest tweaks can have the most transformative effect.
For instance, no matter where they hang, mirrors are undeniably versatile. Aside from making sure you’re picture perfect, they also reflect light, make rooms appear larger, and elevate the charm, personality, and style of indoor spaces—and for a fraction of the cost of a remodel.
Throughout the month of March, take 15% off Décor Mirrors at The Home Depot, and you’ll be well on your way to making a fresh start for the season.
Need a little inspiration? Check out the following spring décor trends and ideas:
1. Brighten Your Mood with Burst Style Frames
Celebrate the springtime by pulling back the curtains, opening the windows, and letting sunlight in. You can also brighten rooms with a modern-themed mirror design that literally gives off solar energy. A set of three Litton Lane Gold Decorative Wall Mirrors features burst-style frames, eye-catching tin banding, and a metallic gold finish that adds warmth and radiance to a room.
2. Liven Up Spaces with an LED Frameless Mirror
Improve an entryway first impression. Provide night lighting for dark hallways. Enhance bathroom ambiance with backlit blue lights. The classically-designed OVE Decors Jovian Frameless Single Mirror is an example of truly illuminating home décor. Modern tech allows the mirror to act as a delicate light source. With the tap of a touch-power sensor, energy-saving LED strips boasting 50,000 hours of life expectancy come alive around the entire mirror.
3. Renew Your View with Window Pane-Inspired Panels
Grids and panels are key features of the ultra-modern Litton Lane Galleria Collection, which includes the room-transforming Arched Window Pane-Inspired Metallic Black Wall Mirror. Fifteen square mirror panels fixed inside of a metallic black, iron-finished frame immediately attract the eye. 
Other Litton Lane mirrors featuring a similar grid-style:
– Rectangular Matte Gray Decorative Wall Mirror – Add depth to a small room with sixteen reflective mirror panels enclosed within an elegant iron metal frame.
– Round Silver Decorative Wall Mirror – The grid-inspired panels elevate the overall look of this minimalist-designed, silver-framed round mirror.
4. Get Textured with Geometric Designs
Mixing up various wood tones add a certain level of warmth to a room that stays in line with the latest home décor trends. The Litton Lane Distressed Wall Mirror with Geometric Designs offers a rustic, decorative fir wood framework made with symmetrical patterns of geometric shapes. Versatile with nearly any color scheme, the frame finish also features various shades of distressed gray, white, black, and brown.
5. Fireplace Facelift: Mirror Over Mantel
During the transition from winter to spring, fireplaces tend to go into hibernation. Here’s where you have the perfect opportunity to refresh the focal point of a living room, den or bedroom. Give your tired mantel décor a rest, and use a mirror instead. Swap paintings/prints for the more neutral look of a mirror with a decorative frame.
The attractive Simpli Home Maya Decor Mirror is an all-around winner; the sculpted, antique-style bronze frame is eco-friendly.
6. Refresh a Room with a Decorative Theme
Themed home décor adds boatloads of character to any personal space and finding “just the right” mirror can really cap off a room makeover. For instance, the rugged and rustic blend of natural brown wood and tarnished brass really pulls together the look of a seafaring captain’s wheel. The Litton Lane Dia Ship’s Wheel Framed Mirror is a no-brainer for nautical-inspired, interior design.
Need a little something to go with your new mirror? If you haven’t already, download our Giving Assistant Button. It’ll help simplify your shopping and save you money on home improvement projects by connecting you to the latest Home Depot deals.
Mar 4, 2019 | Fashion, Health
The Adidas UltraBoost running shoe has undergone its first makeover in nearly four years, and the highly anticipated reveal did not disappoint…
The late 2018/early 2019 UltraBoost revamp features amped-up performance and elevated traction that make fleet-footed excursions much easier to achieve. A sock-like upper fit delivers some of the cushiest runs ever reimagined.
To experience energized strides with every step of a run, shop Ultraboost 19 at Adidas.com for footwear that truly makes a difference.
The Re-Engineered UltraBoost
The latest reconstruction of the Adidas UltraBoost collection is lighter and faster, making it a huge plus for runners looking for soft cushioning and a rejuvenating bounce in their sneakers.
Some major updates seen in the Adidas UltraBoost 19 sneaker include the following elements:
– Optimized Boost Midsole: An added 20% more boost promises a well-cushioned run that increases spring in your step without adding any weight to the midsole.
– Primeknit 360 Motion Weave Technology: Designed to stretch, the Primeknit 360 upper is attached to the midsole and fits like a sock that fully hugs the foot for breathable, lightweight, targeted comfort.
This flexible mono mesh blankets the midfoot, yet still helps improve movement of the foot during runs. The material is soft and bendable up and around the foot, and doesn’t cause friction when toes flex to push-off.
– Adjusted Torsion Spring: Integrated into the midsole, enhanced support assists the momentum and transition a runner encounters when in motion.
– 3D Heel Frame: A more adaptable heel frame offers elevated support and movement, especially for the Achilles.
Ready for all-weather adventures, the Adidas UltraBoost 19 is also equipped with a rugged outsole made from long-lasting Continental™ rubber. A diamond-shaped, hard-edged, durable pattern underfoot provides the extra hold that runners crave when traveling on dirt paths and rain-slick surfaces.
Introducing the Adidas UltraBoost 19
As you shop Ultraboost 19 at Adidas.com for your next pair of running shoes, be on the lookout for the following colors and designs:
‘Clear Brown’
A distinct red design situated between the midsole and outsole gives off energizing, futuristic vibes. Similar to the first color combo of the rejuvenated UltraBoosts to initially hit the scene (‘Laser Red’), the ‘Clear Brown’ model features Clear Brown/Chalk White/Cloud White for men and Clear Brown/Cloud White/Legend Ink for women.
‘Oreo’ and ‘Panda’
Available for men and women, the predominantly black-and-greyish white ‘Oreo‘ color scheme features a Boost outsole, midsole and heel in grey-white with toe-to-tongue coverage in black. Another black-and-white color scheme is the ‘Panda.’
‘Dark Pixel’
Channeling the ‘Triple Black’ design of earlier models, this eye-catching arrangement of colors blends black paneling and multicolored Primeknit for the upper.
‘True Pink’
Sending out those springtime vibes with every step, the ‘True Pink’ UltraBoost 19’s white, pink, and orchid tint color scheme is an exclusive selection for the ladies.
Lastly, if you’re looking to save money on your next pair of Adidas UltraBoost 19 running shoes and other workout apparel, then download our Giving Assistant Button.
Mar 1, 2019 | B Corps
We’re in good company! Certified B Corporations (or B Corps for short) are businesses passionately committed to delving into the far-reaching effects that their decision-making and actions could impact the rest of the world.
What is a B Corp?
Among other things, B Corps operate with the intention of bettering the planet and spearheading social good initiatives. Giving Assistant belongs to this diverse group of businesses and companies that hold the Certified B Corp designation, which is no easy feat to achieve.
Companies must satisfy the high standards of a rigorous certification process. To date, only 2,778 companies across 150 industries in 60 countries have the B Corp stamp of approval and are officially recognized as part of a serious, global group of business-driven do-gooders.
Each B Corp applicant is given an overall ‘impact score’ based upon an assessment of the following:
- Day-to-day business practices
- Positive effect on the environment
- Level of transparency to their customer base and community
- Future goals
- Treatment of workers and consumers
Companies that achieve a score of 80 or higher (out of a possible 200 points) become B Corp Certified, a distinction that elevates the credibility of a company’s commitment towards being an advocate for positive change in the world.
Which Companies Are B Corps?
Giving Assistant works alongside many Certified B Corps, helping brands and consumers achieve social and environmental good through beneficial business interactions and shopping experiences.
In celebration of the positive impact that B Corps achieve worldwide, we’d like to highlight the following certified businesses:
The outdoor gear brand that successfully built a reputation upon a foundation of sustainability was the first company in California to pursue B certification (in 2012).
Outside of their eco-conscious clothing for climbers, trail runners, snowboarders, and other nature-loving sports enthusiasts, Patagonia also strives to make business moves that motivate others to do good, minimize unnecessary harm to the planet, and put a dent in the environmental crisis, such as:
– Joining forces with the 1% for the Planet network and contributing 1% of total annual sales to charitable organizations related to sustainability and conservation.
– Selling a record-breaking $10 million in merchandise on Black Friday 2016, and then donating all sales revenue to grassroots environmental groups and charities.
– Constantly pushing the envelope to offer more Fair Trade Certified styles than any other clothing company, including the first Fair Trade Certified wetsuits in the world.
Lastly, Patagonia currently boasts an extraordinary, overall B Impact Score of 151.5 out of 200.
As one of the largest companies in women’s fashion to achieve B Corp certification, Eileen Fisher maintains a thriving business that provides ladies with simplified, timeless fashion. Beyond the organic linen blazers and tencel slip dresses, the company supports many initiatives that tackle climate change, human rights, fair pay, and gender inequality.
– The company’s headquarters, stores, factories, and New Jersey distribution center embrace ‘green’ initiatives; the L.A. jeans factory cuts water use by 62% for their Utility Blue and Indigo washes.
– The ‘Renew’ take-back program illustrates a commitment to minimizing waste – reselling gently used clothes that customers return in exchange for shopping rewards.
– The ‘Waste No More’ initiative resuscitates ‘damaged beyond repair’ pieces, transforming them into one-of-a-kind works of art and custom-felt creations.
The company also awards life-changing grants and training opportunities that help advance women-owned businesses and encourage future female leaders to blossom.
A commitment to community is one of the driving forces behind TOMS’ growing impact around the world. The TOMS One for One® concept, which initially gave away shoes for every pair sold, now extends into the eyewear, handbag, and coffee bean markets. In shining a light on global poverty and visual impairment, purchasing the following TOMS goods make a significant difference in the world – one person at a time:
– Eyewear purchases have helped restore sight to over 400,000 people, providing prescription glasses, medical treatment, or sight-saving surgery to those in need.
– Buying java beans from TOMS Roasting Co. leads to clean water delivery to communities in need and farmers earning fair wages.
– A TOMS Bag Collection purchase equips birth attendants in developing countries with birth kits and the training necessary to provide safe and healthy birth experiences.
TOMS also continues to increase access to education, healthcare, jobs, and economic stability for millions of people in over 70 countries touched by the company’s efforts.
A favorite in the United States and Canada, Seventh Generation is a pioneer in green household cleaning and personal care products. As their name implies, business decisions are based upon the anticipated long-term effects their actions could have on the next seven generations.
Company highlights include:
– In partnership with Sierra Club, Seventh Generation fueled a grassroots climate change campaign that recently celebrated the 100th city making a pledge to embrace 100% renewable electricity by 2035.
– Products free of synthetic fragrances or dyes. Scents originate from authentic, plant-based ingredients (botanical extracts and essential oils) – all of which are renewable.
– A reputation for keeping in mind the local and global impact of a product, in regards to its manufacturing, purchase, use, and disposal. For instance, items ship in recyclable packaging, made from recycled materials.
The company continuously seeks new and improved ways to enhance their already impressive lineup of sustainable goods and planet-conscious practices, which is why the company is highlighted as a global leader on B Corp’s 2018 Best for the World Honorees List.
In between serving scoops of Cherry Garcia and churning out limited edition ice cream flavors, Ben & Jerry’s uses their global platform to promote worldwide, positive social change. With a focus on eliminating economic injustices within communities on a local, national and international level, Ben & Jerry’s also makes a huge global impact in the following ways:
– Early investments to reduce the company’s drain on the environment continue to pay off, including a carbon offsets program launched at their Vermont manufacturing facilities in 2012.
– The company sources five Fairtrade Certified ingredients (sugar, cocoa, bananas, vanilla and coffee) and as a result, has paid over $3 million dollars in social premiums to small-scale farmers and farming co-ops across the globe.
– The Ben & Jerry’s Foundation awards nearly $2 million annually to eligible recipients of grants that support grassroots activism and organizations that fight against social and environmental injustices in their own backyards.
Ben & Jerry’s also embraces a business model that works towards having corporate endeavors mutually benefit everyone connected to the company, from family farmers to factory employees.
As one of the most recent additions to the B Corp family, Athleta’s mission includes support and motivation for a community of active women and girls striving to reach their highest potential.
The company also:
– Diverts 70% of waste from store packaging from landfills, with a 2020 goal to reach 80%.
– Incorporates sustainable fibers and recycled materials in 46% of the fabrics used to make Athleta apparel, with a 2020 goal of reaching 80%.
– Promotes female empowerment and enhanced quality of life through the Athleta Ambassadors and ‘Power of She’ campaign, P.A.C.E. program, Fair Trade U.S.A., and hosting thousands of annual, free fitness and wellness events.
In addition to producing premium performance apparel, the brand also harnesses the power of advanced technology to help maximize physical activity, strengthen community-wide bonds of sisterhood, and make informed business decisions for the good of all.
What You Can Do To Support B Corps During the Month of March—And Beyond
Shopping at any of the above Certified B Corp companies and brands not only helps these businesses make a difference in the world, but also provides added opportunities that allow you to directly participate.
Download our Giving Assistant Button to find promos that’ll help you earn cashback savings you can donate to the charitable causes near and dear to your heart.
