Balega International’s Interesting CSR Program
Balega International’s Interesting CSR ProgramBalega International is the maker of amazing running socks. Since I’ve been wearing these socks, I haven’t gotten blisters and my feet stay warm in the winter and cool in the summer. So, I’ve become a brand ambassador for the brand.
What I find fascinating about the company is their willingness to give back to the community. They have a program called, The LESEDI Project, which launched in 2004, and provides scholarships and more.
LESIDI means “light and enlightenment.” Balega supports the following organizations:
- Ethembeni School – 12 annual scholarships. This school is the home of 300 severely disabled and disadvantaged children in KwaZulu Natal, South Africa. During the past 10 years, Balega has delivered a wheelchair friendly school bus, therapy play park including swimming pool and numerous cash grants and scholarships.
- Veterans in Need
The fund raising efforts are done through sales of the LESEDI bracelets and sunglass cords which are hand-made by the children in Ethembeni School. Every time, you buy a pair of Balega socks or LESEDI beads at your local running store, you are automatically contributing to the LESEDI FUND!
I received a gift of three of these LESEDI beaded bracelets and haven’t taken them off since. They mean that much!
Other projects that are funded by Balega include:
- Breast Cancer Fund – Every Grit & Grace sock purchased, Balega gives $1 to the fund.
- Veterans in Need – Balega donates $.50 for every sock purchased
- Back on My Feet – A group dedicated to helping homeless people through running programs is also the recipient of Balega International
It’s meaningful when small or large companies give back. One of the ways I give back through HJMT, in addition to mentoring, is providing a scholarship every year to a Long Beach High School Senior going to college for public relations or marketing. It’s just a small token, but it means a lot to the community.
How is your company giving back?
