Businesses Help Consumers Shop With A Purpose

December 9th, 2009 by Erin Posted in Business | 1 Comment »

In a time when everyone is trying to make a buck, I’d like to tip my hat to a Website that’s trying to do the opposite – spread the wealth.

I’m talking about We-Care.com. This dynamic site creates customized co-branded marketplaces allowing people to shop online as they would normally do with a percentage of what they spend going to a nonprofit, school, or association of their choice.

What’s impressive is the wide range of businesses that participate – roughly 800 merchants, ranging from big box stores to small business start ups.

Given that this is the holiday season, and I choose NOT to shop in crowded stores unless forced,  I have taken full advantage of this site.

My cause: The Gwendolyn Strong Foundation (GSF).

Founded in their daughter’s name by Bill and Victoria Strong, GSF is on a dedicated mission to raise awareness and funds to help cure Spinal Muscular Atrophy, the #1 genetic killer of children under 2.

GSF branded their own marketplace using We-Care’s infrastructure. It’s called ShopToEndSMA – and it’s an online shopper’s dream.

Book a trip on Air France. They’ll make a .5% donation.

Order holiday cards at the CardStore (5% donation).

Reserve a stay at the Marriott (1% donation).

Upgrade your computer software at Adobe (4%).

Buy an iPhone at the Apple Store (.5% donation) and then subscribe to AT&T’s 3G network (donation percentage may vary).

… And the list goes on and on.

Look, money is tight.

Most of us don’t have the funds to donate to a cause of our choice. But sites like We-Care and ShopToEndSMA –  and all of the wonderful businesses they’ve partnered with – allow us to give effortlessly.

They literally take the sting out of spending money.

I commend businesses, large and small, for stepping up to the plate during this rough economic time.

While others are hoarding, the partners at We-Care are sharing.

How refreshing.

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One Response to “Businesses Help Consumers Shop With A Purpose”

  1. Bill Snyder Says:
    December 10th, 2009 at 3:45 pm

    I’m the General Manager of We-Care.com.

    Thank you so much for the kind words. We’re working really hard to get the word out to both nonprofits and shoppers. That’s possibly the hardest part of our job, so we really appreciate your help spreading the word.

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