Last updated Jun 12, 2020 | Shopping Tips, Awareness Campaigns
Shopping is a bit like taxes: it doesn’t matter how you feel about it, you still have to do it. But whether you’re shopping for groceries and other basic needs, or just for things you want and enjoy, you’ll be faced with decisions, just like you are every year…in the voting booth.
Every dollar we spend is a “vote” for the kind of world we want to live in, which is why it’s so important to vote for brands whose actions are already helping to create a better world.
Here’s a list of 6 trustworthy brands whose positive track records and recent contributions to the Black Lives Matter movement are inspiring us.
These 6 Brands Are Really Supporting Black Lives Matter and Anti-Racism Initiatives
1. Etsy
Etsy’s cash donations are huge: half a million to the Equal Justice Initiative, which helps stop discriminatory sentencing, and half a million to the Borealis Philanthropy’s Black-Led Movement Fund, which helps fuel world-changing, life-saving movements.
But Etsy is doing more. In addition to matching their employees’ donations to anti-racist organizations, they’ve been extra-responsive to customers’ questions on social, clearly explaining what happens when an Etsy seller, for example, posts racist merchandise, and responding to those who insist they quickly curate a Black-owned seller page. (They did.)
2. Glossier
Glossier, a company not yet 10 years old (and by some standards still in its infancy,) is giving away an extraordinary $1M to fighting racial injustice. Half of that will be given in the form of grants, directly to Black-owned beauty businesses. The grant application is easy to find on their site, and easy to fill out—no red tape, as far as we can tell.
Beyond that, Glossier’s biggest impact might be in their ability to lead the way in saying, “We can do better.” CEO Emily Weiss wrote in a recent statement:
“I also want to acknowledge and own that when it comes to changing the beauty industry, we have meaningful work to do within Glossier. …we currently have no Black representation at the leadership level. Creating an inclusive beauty industry starts with taking a hard look at where Glossier falls short and actively working towards building an organization that better reflects the customers we serve and the world we want to see. We plan to start holding ourselves accountable publicly by sharing our progress on an annual basis.”
3. Thrive Market
Thrive Market is a young brand that has stepped up to the generosity-plate big time in big ways, like by providing meals to those affected by natural disasters, to unjustly detained immigrant families on the border, and to dozens of other underserved groups around the world. They will be donating $50,000 to Black Lives Matter, as well as matching employees’ donations—not just 1-to-1—but 2-to-1: $2 for every $1 an employee donates, specifically to Black Lives Matter, Know Your Rights, and the Atlanta Solidarity Fund.
Even better, the company turned to their Black Thriver Resource Group for direction on where today’s donations were needed most. The three nonprofits named above were chosen through their direction.
4. Ben and Jerry’s
We could write a paragraph about why the historically vocal Ben and Jerry’s should be on this list. Instead, we’re just gonna go have a pint of Justice Remixed and leave this right here: a link to their Black Lives Matter statement that went viral. (And maybe this statement too, for good measure.) (Okay, and this one.)
5. Levi’s
Levi’s track-record is imperfect, but historically positive. Over the decades, the company has made headlines in its efforts to right wrongs in their supply chain, snuff out sweatshops, and focus on sustainability. Some argue there’s still plenty of work to be done when it comes to prioritizing fair wages and increasing transparency around supply chains, but given its track-record and diverse leadership team, Levi’s makes our list as a brand supporting anti-racism in ways that extend beyond donations alone.
The Levi Strauss Foundation has given over $7 million to civil rights causes over the last 10 years, including a recent $100k to “long-standing partner” the ACLU, and $100k to Live Free USA. They have also made over $1 million in donations to anti-gun violence initiatives. Currently (June 2020), they’re holding a regular Instagram Live series called Use Your Voice, where viewers can learn by listening to Black leaders discuss critical current issues.
6. Zappos
This brand, famous for its impeccable customer service and groundbreaking company culture, is not only making donations to nonprofit Color of Change and the Las Vegas chapter of the NAACP, it’s also doubling its employee donation matching to any civil rights nonprofit, investing in its long-standing group the Zappos’ Black Awareness and Empowerment Circle, and being transparent about the work it’s doing to diversify both its workforce and its catalogue.
Most importantly, as of June 2020, their names—George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, Tony McDade, “and so many others”—are on the front page of the brand’s site. Where they’ll be seen.
What is Giving Assistant?
At over 3,000 brands, Giving Assistant shoppers save money, earn cash back, and donate their cash back to any nonprofit, turning their everyday shopping into support for good causes.
Our browser extension makes the whole thing even easier: just download it for free, then shop like normal. If cash back, donations, or deals are available, the extension will let you know. No need to visit our site!
Giving Assistant is also free for nonprofits as a fundraising platform. As one of just a few thousand Certified B Corps in the world, we’re committed to doing good in more ways than one.
About This List
Tiny sparks fuel big fires, and small wins energize big movements.
As a company that works with thousands of brands, and whose mission is to turn the everyday act of shopping into everyday steps towards a better world, we publish these lists in part to encourage shoppers to “vote with their wallets,” but also, to celebrate when companies and people do the right thing.
Before you shop, we encourage you:
If you’re curious about what else you can do (and what we’re doing) we’ve curated a list of resources. But the best resource is still Black voices. Find them on social, in the media, in books, and in your own social circles. Let your guard down. Be still and listen. Let them speak. This is how we learn.
No blog post from us can make up for the things we’ve already left unsaid and undone.
Together, we will be better.
Last updated Jun 30, 2020 | Nonprofits, Awareness Campaigns, Shopping Tips
In the early morning hours of June 28, 1969, police raided a gay bar at the Stonewall Inn in New York City. But patrons of the bar and neighboring citizens fought back, rioting and protesting for six days. Today, many remember the “Stonewall Riots” as the catalyst for the American gay rights movement.
Just one year later in 1970, the first gay pride marches took place in New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco, commemorating the uprising—which is why we celebrate Pride Month in June now!
One easy way to celebrate Pride? Donate.
Check out this list of 17 LGBTQ organizations and give to those whose mission stands out to you.
17 LGBTQ+ Nonprofits You Can Donate to for Pride
National LGBTQ+ Nonprofits
1. The Trevor Project
For donors who want to support LGBTQ+ teenagers and young adults, especially when it comes to suicide prevention.
In addition to hotlines and text lines for youth in crisis, The Trevor Project also runs an online community for young LGBTQ+ people called Trevor Space, where LGBTQ youth between the ages of 13 and 24 can connect and find support.
How to Donate to the Trevor Project
2. GLAAD
For donors who want to support the fair and equal representation of LGBTQ+ people in the media.
How to Donate to GLAAD
3. OutRight Action International
For donors who want to help protect and advance the human and civil rights of LGBTQ+ people internationally, as well as regionally.
How to Donate to the OutRight Action International
4. The National Center for Transgender Equality
For donors who want to protect and advance the civil rights of transgender people, impact public policy, educate, and help increase understanding and acceptance of transgender people in their communities and across the nation.
How to Donate to the The National Center for Transgender Equality
5. Anti-Violence Project (AVP)
For donors who want to help create a violence-free world for LGBTQ+ and HIV-affected people nationally, and globally, through the work of this New York City-based nonprofit.
💡Tip: If you witness or suspect violence against an LGBTQ+ or HIV-affected person, including outside the New York City area, call (212) 714 -1141. Learn more about reporting violence.
How to Donate to the AVP
6. Lambda Legal
For donors who want to give back to the nation’s oldest legal organization for the LGBTQ+ community. Lambda Legal continues to help protect and advance the civil rights of American LGBTQ+ people by providing them with free legal counsel and representation, impacting public policy, and more.
How to Donate to Lambda Legal
7. PFLAG (Parents, Friends and Family of Lesbians and Gays)
For donors who want to help LGBTQ+ people enjoy strong, supportive bonds with friends and family. “Founded in 1973 after the simple act of a mother publicly supporting her gay son,” PFLAG maintains hundreds of chapters across the nation and is the oldest organization focused on educating and supporting the relationships between LGBTQ+ people and those they love most.
How to Donate to PFLAG
Local Community LGBTQ+ Nonprofits
8. Muncie OUTreach
For donors who want to support an LGBTQ+ center for young people in the midwestern U.S. Located in Muncie, Indiana (about an hour northeast of Indianapolis), Muncie OUTreach is the only center of its kind in the community and the surrounding county.
🌈 Did You Know? Small community centers like these play a major role in educating citizens and preventing youth suicide in underserved, non-urban regions. To learn more about increasing awareness and acceptance for LGBTQ+ people and youth in rural communities, check out the work of the Movement Advancement Project.
How to Donate to Muncie OUTreach
9. Pride St. Louis
For donors who want to fund Pride celebrations in St. Louis, Missouri and help provide safe, memorable festivities for all, as well as fund a St. Louis Safe Place that protects the health of St. Louis’ LGBTQ+ citizens.
How to Donate to Pride St. Louis
10. Gay City
For donors who want to support LGBTQ+ people in Seattle, Washington by funding a top health center that not only provides people with resources to keep them healthy and educated, but also a safe, accepting community.
How to Donate to the Gay City
11. Twin Cities Pride
For donors who want to support the lives and health of LGBTQ+ people in the “Twin Cities” of Minneapolis and St. Paul, Minnesota, and help fund a community-wide Pride celebration that draws over 400,000 people annually.
How to Donate to Twin Cities Pride
LGBTQ+ Nonprofits for Black People, PoC, and Underserved Groups
12. Movement Advancement Project (MAP)
For donors who want to improve the acceptance, inclusion, health, and wellbeing of LGBTQ+ people in rural and non-urbans areas, and among underserved groups across the U.S. MAP’s “think-tank” research contributes to the Equality Map, a map showing where in the U.S. work still needs to be done in order to impact public policy, increase acceptance and awareness, or build more resources.
How to Donate to MAP
13. Advocacy and Services for LGBT Elders (SAGE)
For donors who want to help aging members of the LGBTQ+ community “refuse to be invisible.” Via SAGE’s LGBT Aging Center, people can also find local resources to help support senior citizens and loved ones.
💡 Tip: If you or an LGBTQ+ senior citizen you love needs help with anything from mental health support, to legal help, to housing, call the SAGE hotline at 877-360-LGBT.
How to Donate to SAGE
14. Color Bloq
For donors who want to help support the Black LGBTQ+ community and LGBTQ+ people of color. Color Bloq also provides education, helps create safe spaces, and celebrates the community through an engaging digital magazine, art, and cultural events.
💡 Tip: They’re accepting creative work by LGBTQ+ PoC for their magazine! Here’s their submission link.
How to Donate to Color Bloq
15. National Queer Asian Pacific Islander Alliance (NQAPIA)
For donors who want to help increase visibility of LGBTQ+ Asians and Pacific Islanders and support their community’s work.
🌈 Did You Know? NQAPIA’s PSA series entitled “Family is Still Family” is a touching awareness campaign published in multiple languages, aimed at encouraging acceptance and love among the Asian and Pacific Islander families and communities of LGBTQ+ people.
How to Donate to NQAPIA
16. National Congress of American Indians (NCAI)
For donors who want to support the LGBTQ+ Native American community, increase visibility, and support the efforts of the National Congress of American Indians as they continue their work protecting the rights and livelihoods of their “Two Spirit” community members. (Learn more about what “Two Spirit” means at IndianHealthService.gov.)
💡 Tip: Check out this resource for LGBTQ+ Native Americans, which includes contact information for about 20 local “Two Spirit” centers around the country, plus a tribal equity toolkit, reading material, and more.
How to Donate to the NCAI
17. Many Voices
For donors who want to help Black LGBTQ+ people who have felt isolated by the church find acceptance and love within their spiritual communities. Many Voices is a “black church movement for gay and transgender justice,” that goes beyond just correcting prejudice within the church and advocating for a more inclusive theology, but also lifting up and educating future leaders within the movement.
💡Tip: Check out this list to find even more nonprofits working to support dozens of other underserved LGBTQ+ communities.
How to Donate to Many Voices
Tips for Taking Pride Action
In addition to some Google searching, try the following:
- CenterLink, to find local organizations within the CenterLink network
- PFLAG, to find there local chapters (there are lots)
- itgetsbetter.org’s search tool, to find local support for LGBTQ+ youth
Can’t find anything where you live? Consider striking the match yourself.
What is Giving Assistant?
At over 3,000 brands, Giving Assistant shoppers save money, earn cash back, and donate their cash back to any nonprofit…turning their everyday shopping into support for a good cause!
Our browser extension makes the whole thing even easier: just download it for free, then shop like normal. If cash back, donations, or deals are available, the extension will let you know. No need to visit our site!
Giving Assistant is also free for nonprofits to use as a fundraising platform. As one of just a few thousand Certified B Corps in the world, we’re committed to doing good in more ways than one.
❤ Special Note: In addition to our support of LGBTQ+ people and communities around the world, Giving Assistant is also committed to helping amplify the voices of Black Americans, and to participating in the fight against racial injustice and discrimination.
We’re excited to help you shop and give. We also encourage all our shoppers to take advantage of any opportunity available to them to help aid in this fight, whether that’s marching in protests, donating directly to nonprofits and personal fundraising campaigns, or simply standing alongside those at work within the Black Lives Matter movement.
Last updated Jun 26, 2020 | Nonprofits, Awareness Campaigns
For decades, Black people and people of color (PoC) in America have been the victims of unresolved, systemic racism, reflected especially in the repeated, unjustified loss of Black lives at the hands of racially-motivated violence, unlawful use of police force, unequal access to healthcare, and more.
But Americans are rising up. In addition to protesting en masse, engaging lawmakers, and creating more room for Black voices, people are making or increasing their donations to civil rights nonprofits by millions.
These organizations—plus dozens more—need our donations right now in order to afford all available resources necessary to triple their efforts, and hurry to end racial injustice once and for all.
Before you read…
In addition to civil rights and Black Lives Matter nonprofits, there are also some personal funds and community causes you might consider giving to:
Donate to these 10 Nonprofits that Support Black Lives Matter and Civil Rights
1. The Leadership Conference Education Fund
For donors who want to:
Help stop racism from the inside out—systemically, and through America’s legislative and judicial systems—by helping to protect vulnerable citizens, and while teaching Americans 1) that racism still exists, 2) why it exists, and 3) how we can stop it.
What is the Leadership Conference Education Fund’s Mission?
“Build an America as good as its ideals.” (Source)
How to Donate to the Leadership Conference Education Fund
- Give directly on their site.
- Shop with Giving Assistant and donate your cash back. (During 6/3 – 6/13/2020 we will be matching all donations made to this nonprofit dollar for dollar.)
2. Equal Justice Initiative
For donors who want to:
Help stop the disproportionate imprisonment and sentencing of Black people and people of color, help ensure all Americans receive fair trials, help free unjustifiably incarcerated Americans, and provide additional support and resources to impoverished communities.
What is the Equal Justice Initiative’s Mission?
“The Equal Justice Initiative is committed to ending mass incarceration and excessive punishment in the United States, to challenging racial and economic injustice, and to protecting basic human rights for the most vulnerable people in American society.” (Source)
How to Donate to the Equal Justice Initiative
- Give directly on their site.
- Shop with Giving Assistant and donate your cash back. (During 6/3 – 6/13/2020 we will be matching all donations made to this nonprofit dollar for dollar.)
3. Black Lives Matter
For donors who want to:
Fund a nonprofit visibly acting to turn up the volume on all Black voices—including those of LGBTQ+ Black people, women, those living with disabilities, and more—in the media, on the streets, nationwide, and within thousands of local communities.
What is Black Lives Matter’s Mission?
“We are working for a world where Black lives are no longer systematically targeted for demise.” (Source)
How to Donate to Black Lives Matter
4. American Civil Liberties Union Foundation
For donors who want to:
Fund the work of a nationally renown nonprofit with a vibrant, storied history, a decades-long record of historic court and social wins for marginalized Americans and minority groups, and a wide reach that extends across and beyond the Black community.
What is the American Civil Liberties Union’s Mission?
“The ACLU works in the courts, legislatures and communities to defend and preserve the individual rights and liberties guaranteed to all people in this country by the Constitution and laws of the United States.” (Source)
How to Donate to the American Civil Liberties Union
- Give directly on their site.
- Shop with Giving Assistant and donate your cash back. (During 6/3 – 6/13/2020 we will be matching all donations made to this nonprofit dollar for dollar.)
5. NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund
For donors who want to:
Help a nationally-renowned organization with a series of historic wins protect the rights of Black people and people of color in America, and provide legal defense for victims of racial discrimination today.
What is NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund’s Mission?
“…LDF seeks structural changes to expand democracy, eliminate disparities, and achieve racial justice in a society that fulfills the promise of equality for all Americans. LDF also defends the gains and protections won over the past 75 years of civil rights struggle and works to improve the quality and diversity of judicial and executive appointments..” (Source)
How to Donate to NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund
- Give directly on their site.
- Shop with Giving Assistant and donate your cash back. (During 6/3 – 6/13/2020 we will be matching all donations made to this nonprofit dollar for dollar.)
6. Black Voters Matter (BVM) Capacity Building Institute
For donors who want to:
Help ensure all Black Americans are given an equal opportunity to vote in all elections, by ensuring they have all the same resources, information, and empowerment afforded to other communities.
What is the BVM Capacity Building Institute Mission?
“Our goal is to increase power in marginalized, predominantly Black communities.” (Source)
How to Donate to the BVM Capacity Building Institute
- Give directly on their site.
- Shop with Giving Assistant and donate your cash back. (During 6/3 – 6/13/2020 we will be matching all donations made to this nonprofit dollar for dollar.)
7. National Urban League
For donors who want to:
Help protect the rights of Black Americans in underserved communities to receive equal access to housing, voting resources, work, legal defense, and healthcare, and to help ensure Black families in America have equal access to quality education for their children and their college-bound students.
What is the National Urban League’s Mission?
“To help African-Americans and others in underserved communities achieve their highest true social parity, economic self- reliance, power, and civil rights. The League promotes economic empowerment through education and job training, housing and community development, workforce development, entrepreneurship, health, and quality of life.” (Source)
How to Donate to the National Urban League
- Give directly on their site.
- Shop with Giving Assistant and donate your cash back. (During 6/3 – 6/13/2020 we will be matching all donations made to this nonprofit dollar for dollar.)
8. Ella Baker Center for Human Rights
For donors who want to:
Learn about Ella Baker, a hero of the American Civil Rights Movement, and help keep her legacy alive by funding a nonprofit working to help racially diverse, underserved communities create solutions for poverty, educate, pass legislation, and end the mass incarceration of Black and Brown Americans.
What is the Ella Baker Center for Human Rights’ Mission?
“We build on [Ella Baker’s] legacy by building the power of black, brown, and poor people to create solutions for one of the biggest drivers of injustice today: mass incarceration.” (Source)
How to Donate to the Ella Baker Center for Human Rights
- Give directly on their site.
- Shop with Giving Assistant and donate your cash back. (During 6/3 – 6/13/2020 we will be matching all donations made to this nonprofit dollar for dollar.)
9. National Bail Fund Network
For donors who want to:
Help post bail for Black Lives Matters protesters and others unjustifiably jailed right now, in addition to funding the long-term work of a nonprofit seeking to upend our justice system and protect Americans’ rights to equal trials, legal representation, and fair sentencing.
What is the National Bail Fund Network’s Mission?
“The Community Justice Exchange [parent of the National Bail Fund] develops, shares and experiments with tactical interventions, strategic organizing practices, and innovative organizing tools to end all forms of criminalization, incarceration, surveillance, supervision, and detention.” (Source)
How to Donate to the National Bail Fund Network
10. Know Your Rights Camp
Started by Colin Kaepernick, has a mission to “advance the liberation of Black and Brown communities through education, self-empowerment, mobilization and the creation of new systems that elevate the next generation of change leaders.” Currently, the fund is also providing legal services for people in Minneapolis.
For donors who want to:
Help fund educational, empowering, memorable camps and camp experiences for Black and Brown youth, founded by famed NFL star Colin Kapernik.
What is Know Your Rights Camp’s Mission?
“Our mission is to advance the liberation and well-being of Black and Brown communities through education, self-empowerment, mass-mobilization and the creation of new systems that elevate the next generation of change leaders.” (Source)
How to Donate to Know Your Rights Camp
What is Giving Assistant?
Giving Assistant helps online shoppers turn their everyday shopping into donations for any nonprofit.
Members get exclusive coupons and savings at over 3,000 top online brands, plus earn cash back they can donate easily to any nonprofit organization in the U.S.
Our browser extension makes the whole thing even easier: just download it for free, then shop, save, and automate your cash back donations.
GIving Assistant is committed to helping amplify the voices of Black Americans, and to participating in the fight against racial injustice and discrimination.
We’re excited to help you shop and give. We also encourage all our shoppers to take advantage of any opportunity available to them to help aid in this fight, whether that’s marching in protests, donating directly to nonprofits and personal fundraising campaigns, or simply standing alongside those at work within the Black Lives Matter movement.
Last updated May 19, 2020 | Shopping Tips, Awareness Campaigns
Mental Health Awareness Month has been observed in May for over 70 years, providing a dedicated time to open up the national conversation on mental health and break the stigma of mental illness. But talking openly and sensitively about mental health is essential year-round, and there are many ways to contribute to advocacy, outreach, or awareness efforts.
That’s why we’re highlighting these 7 brands for the initiatives they support or the work they do themselves to support mental health — and that’s just one way brands are giving back. Shopping from the 7 brands below can also earn you cash back that you can donate to mental health nonprofits.
Let’s shop for good:
Brands that Support Mental Health (2020 Review)
1. JanSport
JanSport is a popular backpack and bag company known for their simple, instantly recognizable bookbags and no-questions-asked lifetime guarantee. Whether in school or out on the trail, you’ve probably seen backpacks just about everywhere.
How JanSport Supports Mental Health
- JanSport started #LightenTheLoad, a campaign to help connect young people with mental health resources — especially under the heightened stress of the COVID-19 pandemic.
- The company is featuring spotlight conversations with experienced therapists on its Instagram Live channel every Wednesday in May (with an archive available on their website’s dedicated campaign page).
- JanSport has also published basic, yet engaging mental health insights from organizations like the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and American Psychological Association on their site, along with information on crisis text and phone lines for help in emergency situations.
Earn 2% cash back from Jansport when shopping through Giving Assistant. Consider donation some or all of your earnings to your favorite mental health nonprofit.
2. Kenneth Cole
Kenneth Cole is a major American fashion house that sells clothing and shoes across several lines and price tiers. They also offer some bedding and bath towels.
How Kenneth Cole Supports Mental Health
- Founder and designer Kenneth Cole formed the Mental Health Coalition to work toward destigmatizing mental health conditions
- The Coaliition works with mental health nonprofits like the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, Bring Change to Mind, Child Mind Institute, Crisis Text Line, JED Foundation, Mental Health America, National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), and The Trevor Project.
You can get 3% cash back at Kenneth Cole or enjoy great deals when you shop through Giving Assistant. Consider donating your savings to these critical mental health organizations.
3. Ban.do
Ban.do is a lifestyle brand that sells clothing, accessories, and wellness items — often with messaging that promotes optimism and positivity.
How Ban.do Supports Mental Health
- One of Ban.do’s notable “Feel Better” collections is Jen x Iconery, a set of necklaces designed by founder and mental health advocate Jen Gotch.
- The necklaces feature “Depression,” “Anxiety,” and “Bipolar” word charms in rhodium- or gold-dipped brass — a cheeky and earnest way to open a conversation about one’s experience.
- 100% of proceeds from these necklaces go to Bring Change to Mind, a nonprofit “dedicated to ending the stigma and discrimination surrounding mental illness.”
4. Lululemon
Lululemon is a brand that’s become synonymous with leggings, but they also offer a variety of activewear and accessories for men and women.
How Lululemon Supports Mental Health
- Lululemon created Peace on Purpose, a collection of meditation tools.
- Peace on Purpose includes workshops hosted by mindfulness leaders designed to help cope with anxiety, burnout, grief, and more — all of which may be exacerbated amidst this crisis
You can get 2% cash back and stay current with the latest Lululemon deals when you shop through Giving Assistant, Please consider donating your cash back to help support a mental health nonprofit.
5. Free People
Free People is a women’s clothing brand focused on bohemian style. The original Free People evolved into the larger lifestyle brand that is now known as Urban Outfitters, and later reemerged as a women’s chain within URBN’s larger portfolio of brands.
How Free People Supports Mental Health
- Free People is a member of the URBN portfolio of brands, which has a dedicated Making an Impact branch for social good initiatives.
- One of Free People’s efforts toward community and women’s empowerment is their partnership with Girls, Inc., a nonprofit focused on supporting opportunities alongside personal and professional mentorship for women and girls.
- Girls, Inc. promotes discussions of and support for mental health and fighting stigma. President and CEO Judy Vredenburgh has called on the nonprofit’s affiliates to join an effort to encourage adoption of trauma-informed policies in schools to appropriately meet student needs.
Earn up to 3% cash back at Free People when you shop through Giving Assistant. Please consider using your free cash back to donate to a mental health nonprofit.
6. ACE Fitness
Exercise is not an instant solution to mental health challenges, but it does have an overall positive impact on our physical and emotional health. ACE Fitness is a nonprofit health coach certification organization that also offers exercise programs and courses.
How ACE Fitness Supports Mental Health
Get the latest deals through Giving Assistant plus earn 8% cash back from ACE Fitness. Please consider donating some or all of your free cash back to a mental health awareness nonprofit.
7. Athleta
Athleta is a popular activewear and fashion company within the Gap family of brands. They’re also a fellow B Corp with a variety of guiding values for social and environmental responsibility.
How Athleta Supports Mental Health
- Athleta created the Wellness Collective, a comprehensive destination for digital content, information on events, and perspectives from women for women on how to lead a balanced life that includes attention to mental health and self care.
- In addition to its primary focus on personal wellness, this repository also includes resources for community building and building career satisfaction.
Right now you can earn 4% cash back when you shop at Athleta through Giving Assistant. Donate your savings to a mental health nonprofit to ensure your latest activewear purchase contributes to the latest awareness or advocacy efforts.
Your Savings Can Support Mental Health Awareness
There are plenty of ways to make a difference this Mental Health Awareness month. Whether you shop from Free People to support their advocacy through Girls, Inc. or check out Lululemon’s meditation tools while sporting a new pair of their leggings, you will be supporting a brand who is giving back to mental health.
Additionally, you can earn cash back from Giving Assistant to support a great mental health nonprofit such as:
Be sure to install the Giving Assistant Button on your browser to automatically keep up with the latest deals and cash back amounts. Then all of your donations can be automatically sent to your preferred mental health awareness organization.
Last updated Jun 19, 2020 | Nonprofits, Awareness Campaigns
Sharing resources, raising awareness, and developing tools to support mental health benefits everyone. As Mental Health America notes, “while 1 in 5 people will experience a mental illness during their lifetime, everyone faces challenges in life that can impact their mental health.”
Right now, we’re sharing one such challenge around the globe. The unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic has shown the importance of finding ways to take care of each other and support our own mental health. Now more than ever, we need to break the stigma of seeking help and enable access to mental health treatment and education.
With that in mind, we’re spotlighting 13 mental health nonprofits who make a difference in this effort every day, and whose work is crucial given the heightened distress of this crisis.
13 Mental Health Awareness and Advocacy Nonprofits to Support
1. Mental Health America
Mental Health America is a national organization that serves people living with mental illness and promotes mental health “through advocacy, education, research, and services.” They seek to identify mental illnesses early and construct a plan of care that best supports the individual.
MHA distributes information and online tools and organizes events to build better understanding of mental illness identification and intervention when necessary, in addition to recommending policy changes that support mental health for all.
Consider donating your free cash back to Mental Health America when shopping online.
2. National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) aims to “a world where all people affected by mental illness live healthy, fulfilling lives supported by a community that cares.” Guided by the core values of hope, inclusion, empowerment, compassion, and fairness, they offer mental health education, advocate for national legislation that supports people with mental illness, run a toll-free helpline, and organize events and activities that build awareness.
Consider donating your free cash back to National Alliance on Mental Illness when shopping online.
3. Hope for Depression Research Foundation
Hope for Depression Research Foundation is a nonprofit organization committed to scientific research on “the origins, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of depression, bipolar disorder, postpartum depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety disorders, and suicide.”
Founded in 2006, HDRF focuses on a variety of research areas within brain science, and launched a Depression Task Force comprising 10 leading scientists to deepen their efforts to understand mental illnesses.
Consider donating your free cash back to Hope for Depression Research Foundation when shopping online.
4. The Trevor Project
The Trevor Project provides crisis intervention, suicide prevention, and support services to LGBTQ youth under 25.
Founded in 1998, the national organization offers a 24/7 toll free phone lifeline and free confidential instant messaging and text messaging services — all with trained volunteer counselors. The Trevor Project also facilitates educational workshops and support training for young people, adults and allies; policy advocacy to protect LGBTQ people, and other community building initiatives.
Consider donating your free cash back to The Trevor Project when shopping online.
5. Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance
Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance offers support and education to “improve the lives of people who have mood disorders.” DBSA’s core values are community, inspiration, wisdom, and responsibility. The nonprofit provides peer-led support groups and wellness tools, advances research and promotes information about wellness practices, and advocates to protect the autonomy of people living with mental illness as they navigate their chosen path.
Consider donating your free cash back to Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance when shopping online.
6. American Foundation for Suicide Prevention
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention provides a national community of support for those affected by suicide.
Founded in 1987, AFSP is dedicated to research, education, and advocacy focused on mental health and suicide prevention. The organization works to pass public policy at the state and federal level to help prevent suicide and engender improved mental health nationwide, and provides approachable resources for people to get help quickly.
Consider donating your free cash back to American Foundation for Suicide Prevention when shopping online.
7. Anxiety and Depression Association of America
Anxiety and Depression Association of America is an international nonprofit focused on “prevention and treatment of anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other conditions through education, practice, and research.”
The organization’s members include psychiatrists, psychologists, neuroscientists, researchers, nurses, social workers, and therapists. They aim to improve individual well-being through a variety of support strategies and resources including free webinars, online peer-to-peer support groups, a therapist directory, newsletter, and more.
Consider donating your free cash back to Anxiety and Depression Association of America when shopping online.
8. Foundation for the Awakening Mind
Foundation for the Awakening Mind is a nonprofit that approaches mental health from a forgiveness and faith-based approach. The organization, founded by David Hoffmeister, offers free audio recordings, videos, writing, and other tools to help steward healing, cultivate peace of mind, and support inner happiness. They also practice A Course in Miracles, a self-study course designed to mitigate feelings of abandonment and other challenges.
Consider donating your cash back to Foundation for the Awakening Mind when shopping online.
9. Mindfulness First
Mindfulness First is an Arizona-based nonprofit that provides “scientifically-informed mindful awareness and social-emotional learning programs” to children and adults nationwide. They train K–12 teachers both in these programs and in trauma, and share curriculum to help them help their students cultivate “mental health life skills.” In addition, Mindfulness First offers free monthly “Mindful Talks” for with specialists, as well as free “Mindful Parties” that are available by appointment for kids.
Consider donating your cash back to Mindfulness First when shopping online.
10. Crossroads of Iowa
Crossroads of Iowa offers holistic mental wellness classes to incarcerated women in Polk County Jail in Des Moines in an effort to reduce recidivism, provide closure, and empower individuals to process their experiences through journaling and other techniques. The group also provides classes specific to grief
Consider donating your cash back to Crossroads of Iowa when shopping online.
11. New Hope Housing
Though perhaps not often discussed, the basic need of secure housing is a crucial factor for maintaining one’s mental health. New Hope Housing provides homeless individuals and families with housing and resources to improve their lives, with an overall approach of dignity and respect for all. In addition to their shelter, family housing, first apartment, and rapid re-housing services, they offer education and employment assistance and other support.
Consider donating your cash back to New Hope Housing when shopping online.
12. Fear 2 Freedom
Fear 2 Freedom is a global nonprofit that seeks to “help restore hope and dignity to survivors of sexual assault while empowering students and communities to combat sexual violence.” Founded in 2011, the organization provides educational programs and care kits for survivors. During its signature “Hour 2 Empower” event, students hear from a featured speaker about topics that could include dating and domestic violence, sexual assault, consent, stalking, and human trafficking; and assemble care kits for survivors.
Fear 2 Freedom also offers a freshman orientation program and a 90-minute anonymous survivor story presentation. There are several ways to get involved for people interested in joining the nonprofit’s efforts in any capacity.
Consider donating your cash back to Fear 2 Freedom when shopping online.
13. Autism Society of America
Autism Society of America is a nonprofit dedicated to improving the lives of all people affected by autism by prioritizing quality of life, dignity, and appreciation for individual talents and skills. The organization’s work includes advocacy and educational efforts, and community support at the local, state, and national level. They are also notable for having people on the autism spectrum on both their board of directors and other leadership roles across the nonprofit.
Autism Society of America also features a “first-of-its-kind advisory panel comprised solely of individuals with autism who help Autism Society staff create programs and services that will advocate for the right of all people with autism to live fulfilling, interdependent lives.”
Consider donating your cash back to Autism Society of America when shopping online.
Give Back to Mental Health Awareness Through Charitable Shopping
When you use Giving Assistant to shop you can support Mindfulness First or any mental health nonprofit by donating your free cash back. Your donation you can help advocates, researchers, and educators around the country create more thoughtful discussions and approaches to mental health. Collectively, these micro-donations add up and help nonprofits like Mindfulness First reach their fundraising and impact goals.
You can also shop these 7 brands supporting mental health causes while donating your cash back earnings to Mindfulness First—or another nonprofit you love!
Every cent makes a difference.
