We're proud to announce that GU has become a member of 1% for the Planet. The decision to join represents a formalized commitment to philanthropic purpose work that has long been at the core of the GU identity. Since moving into the role of Director of Community and Purpose last year, Celia Camargo has dedicated her efforts to building and structuring GU Gives, our philanthropic program, and she's the best person to explain the why behind our announcement.
What is it about a 1% for the Planet partnership that makes this an exciting philanthropic giving avenue for GU?
As a family-owned business that creates products that feed the need to move, we have always been passionate about protecting the places we play. 2023 to 2024 marks our 30-year anniversary; guided by our core values of accountability, longevity, and love, we’re proud to join 1% for the Planet and make the commitment to give 1% of our annual revenue back to the environment. We believe that it’s our responsibility as a business to give back and do what we can to have a positive impact for future generations to enjoy planet Earth.
How has GU chosen the partners that will receive philanthropic support?
As members of 1% for the Planet, we’re proud to support Environmental Partners that take responsibility for the planet and drive positive change. To highlight a few of our partners, we are proud to support Rising Hearts and Running Industry Diversity Coalition to ensure that BIPOC voices are highlighted and centered in conversation, Challenged Athletes Foundation, Runners for Public Lands, Western States Endurance Run Foundation and The Conservation Alliance to ensure equitable access and protection of the outdoors, and National Interscholastic Cycling Association and Running for a Better Oakland to ensure youth build a healthy lifestyle, prosperous community, and love and appreciation for the Planet.
How does being a 1% member fit within the broader goals of GU Gives?
We believe that everyone should have access to physical movement, natural spaces, and wholesome nutrition. When people buy our products, we know that we are helping them fuel their athletic goals. As a growing company, it’s important to us that we don’t grow just to grow, but that we continue to build an enduring, sustainable company that gives back to the Planet and the communities we live, work, and play in. Being a member of 1% for the Planet ensures that we give back 1% for our annual revenue through grants, employee volunteering, product donations and more. As Yvon Chouinard has pointed out – there is a lot of talk out there about sustainability, but a commitment to 1% for the Planet can’t be faked, and we like that kind of commitment and accountability!