The Stories Behind July’s Good. Works. Wednesday Charities
Our Good. Works. Wednesday (GWW) efforts are going strong! Finding local charities to support each month has reignited our love and appreciation for our community and the hard work so many people are doing behind the scenes. If you’re unfamiliar with GWW, it’s really very simple. Twenty percent off all non-custom sales at Red Barn Mercantile and Penny Post on any given Wednesday will be donated to a nonprofit organization. We spotlight a different charity every Wednesday.
For July, we’ve asked our team members to choose charities that are important to them. We’ve also asked them to tell us why these charities resonate with them.
The schedule is as follows:
July 6: The DC Sustainable Fashion Collective, an organization that strives to educate the public on issues surrounding sustainability, ethics, and fair wages in the fashion industry. They create community around these ideals by organizing conferences for fashion industry professionals and sharing resources where Washington, D.C. consumers can find sustainable, local shops that care about their impact on the community and the world.
Carly (Penny Post): After learning about the harm and alarming consumption habits the fashion industry causes, I committed myself to end my relationship with fast fashion. By shopping second-hand and vintage, mending my clothes, supporting brands that focus on small-batch goods and living wages, and using resources such as the DC Sustainable Fashion Collective, I’m able to infuse my wardrobe with rebellion against mass clothing consumption. (Read more about Carly’s fashionable fashion industry rebellion here!)
A photo of some pieces Carly mended or embellished with details to make them more exciting (Left). A photo of some of Carly’s favorite thrifted finds (Right).
July 13: The American Program for Suicide Prevention, Capital Area Chapter, dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide.
Phaedra (Penny Post): This organization is important to me because I have watched many close to me struggle with their mental health, especially during and after the pandemic. The need for education, prevention programs, and support for those who have tragically lost someone is in dire need. By supporting this organization, people and families in need can get the necessary resources and help they need!
July 20: Earth Sangha, an organization that engages in ecological restoration.
Courtenay (Red Barn Mercantile): I chose Earth Sangha because I appreciate their commitment and approach to conservation and native plants. They demonstrate what a transformational impact a small group of committed volunteers can have on the restoration and preservation of our natural environment.
July 27: InspireLit, a literacy nonprofit in Alexandria creating a revolution of books and a new generation of readers.
Jen (Red Barn Mercantile): I chose InspireLit because their objective is to make high-quality books available and accessible to all local children, regardless of family income status, while also providing opportunities for them to make book choices in their preferred genres or areas of interest.
Once again, we’re thrilled to play a small part in supporting these incredible organizations, and we hope you’ll take the time to learn a little bit more about each of them. And be sure to shop at Penny Post and Red Barn Mercantile on Wednesdays to show your support!
