Members of the Cannabis Business Alliance have announced schedules of charitable giving for Corporate Social Responsibility programs implemented at their companies. Supporting those in need, in their own communities, is a responsibility CBA businesses are dedicated to at holiday time and throughout the year.
“The legal cannabis industry exists to do the right thing–we are an industry that supports community programs while diverting power from the black market and organized crime,” said Kevin Gallagher, executive director of the Cannabis Business Alliance.
“Our members want to support our communities and organizations that provide support to underserved communities such as veterans, families in need, and those who suffer from illness,” he added.
CBA member Love’s Oven donates a portion of proceeds from their sales of limited edition, seasonal treats. This year, their 10MG Ginger Spice Cookie is featured, and sales will benefit the Colorado Village Collaborative. The nonprofit organization provides shelter for homeless people by creating tiny house communities
Wana Brands, another CBA member, donated more than $97,000 of retail product to Grow for Vets; a charity they support throughout the year that works to prevent suicide among veterans, as well as to address other veteran’s health issues. Wana Brands also has given to The Gathering Place, which assists transgender individuals, women, and children that are affected by poverty. In addition, during this season, Wanna Brands will also be supporting Boulder Homeless Shelter’s holiday drive.
At Native Roots dispensaries (20 throughout Colorado), their company’s year-round community engagement program has seen more than 450 employee hours provided to charities that benefit from each Native Roots location. The CBA member company also donates financial support to various organizations through its own nonprofit Native Roots Foundation. Denver Urban Scholars which partners with high-poverty schools are among the charities that benefit from the foundation’s work, as well as victims of Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria, who received a $15,000 donation. This winter, Native Roots locations also are taking donations for the One Warm Coat drive.
Colorado-based Craft Concentrates, also a CBA member, supports Sacred Heart House of Denver, which serves families in homeless situations. The company collects and donates food, toiletries, clothing, and toys to those seeking temporary housing.
In 2017, a year that saw several significant natural disasters, CBA members, as well as other cannabis industry businesses and organizations have made charitable giving a priority for their companies’ missions.
“Cannabis companies are looking for organizations that are making an important difference. These examples are only the beginning, and we look forward to supporting critical issues through our non-profit partners in 2018,” CBA’s Gallagher said.
