I’m going to be honest with you. Most years, my primary concern when it came to Christmas shopping was efficiency. If it couldn’t be purchased from Amazon and delivered within the two-day window promised by a Prime membership? It probably wasn’t going to be found under our tree.
I still support that as a completely valid way of fulfilling the mammoth holiday season to-do list. However, I’m trying to be a bit more thoughtful about the companies I support with my purchases this year. Shopping locally is always a good place to start. But I’ve taken it one step further and compiled a list of five of my favorite Nashville businesses committed to doing good in the world. These businesses accomplish this goal either with their proceeds or their business practices.
Thistle Farms
Thistle Farms employs survivors of trafficking, addiction and prostitution. In recent years, they’ve expanded beyond their trademark line of bath and body products. Their products now include a range of items—from greeting cards to jewelry.
Project 615
This t-shirt screenprinting business employs men on the path of recovery from homelessness, addiction, and mental illness. (Project 615 also made our list of favorite things on our Holiday Wishlist this year!)
This company works with women — both locally and globally. These women have overcome challenges ranging from prostitution to homelessness to addiction to a lack of opportunity. Their product line ranges from leather goods made in Ethiopia to jewelry made right here in Nashville.
Ten Thousand Villages
Ten Thousand Villages supports fair trade practices. They partner with artisans from developing countries all over the globe. As a nonprofit social enterprise, it’s not your typical business. They are committed to paying fair prices, supporting good working conditions, and creating long-term partnerships with the artisans whose products they feature.
Nashville Giving Tree
Nashville Giving Tree supports single moms in the Nashville area. 100 percent of their proceeds from the sale of live Christmas trees goes to struggling single moms. They help them put food on the table and presents under the tree this holiday season.