Keen to get outdoors and help the environment? KEEN Footwear makes it easier by unveiling The KEEN Effect a, fan-activated grants program designed to support non-profits fueling people’s passion for protecting the environment and promoting responsible outdoor participation…
“KEEN’s promise is all about building strong communities and a healthier planet,” says grant organizer Chris Enlow . “Our products are very much rooted in the paddling community. We launched The KEEN Effect with that in mind, taking our company’s promise and commitment to conservation a step further by funding non-profits that enable even more people to enjoy the outdoors. Hopefully our dollars will inspire more people to get outside while helping to protect local rivers.”
Believing in the power of a brand to inspire others to create positive change, KEEN’s new grant falls under its corporate giving program, Hybrid.Care, through which KEEN dedicates time and resources to appropriate social and environmental organizations. Since 2004, KEEN has distributed more than $7 million in cash and resources to non-profit organizations around the globe.
“At KEEN, we believe spending time outdoors is a key element to build strong communities and a healthier planet,” says Enlow. “We also know we have incredibly caring, creative and connected fans. We designed The KEEN Effect with that in mind, to give KEEN fans the opportunity to help fund the hard-working non-profits that enable them and others to enjoy the outdoors. We’re a brand rooted in the outdoors and in doing the right thing. The KEEN Effect takes our commitment to the outdoors a step further by funding programs that enable even more people to enjoy nature’s playgrounds.”
The cornerstone of the grant is putting the brand’s fans at the center of the funding process. Fans and retailers are being asked to nominate organizations in their communities who are doing great work and providing ways for people to get outdoors. The KEEN Effect will multiply this passion for the outdoors by funding the nonprofit’s work. KEEN will award $100,000 in grants to 25 organizations around the world. The KEEN Effect grant application is available until December 6, 2013. Grants will be awarded in early 2014.
Grantees nominated by fans must define how their organization or specific program inspires responsible outdoor participation as a way to work towards building a stronger community. KEEN will give special consideration to projects that introduce new audiences to the outdoors through responsible outdoor participation. The grants are eligible to tax exempt, not-for-profit organizations; 501(c)3 or international equivalents.
“We encourage people to spread the word about this great new program and urge eligible non-profits to apply,” adds Enlow. “Hopefully our dollars will inspire more people to get outside while helping to protect natural playgrounds. We’re excited to see the effects of The KEEN Effect in the months and years to come.”
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