Tell us about the history of your organization?
CAUSEGEAR began in 2011 as a vision of Brad Jeffery. Beginning with a mission trip to Mexico, Brad became increasingly aware of global poverty. In the fall Brad visited with pastors and business leaders in Ethiopia and Kenya. He noticed that many living in poverty had skills, but lacked access to a sustainable marketplace. While walking through the Kibera slums of Nairobi, Brad had a vision:What if a one to one relationship could be created between the fortunate few and the marginalized many in the poorest regions of the world through the purchase of high-quality, handmade, market-relevant fashion supporting dignified jobs for poorest on the planet? And what if each “crafter” was paid enough to take control of their lives and provide essential family needs (shelter, food, clean water, clothing, and medical)? Creating a relationship that provides tangible, sustainable life change, and a chance to break the cycle of poverty and slavery. Not a hand-out, but an investment in the well being of others who don’t have the same opportunities we enjoy in the U.S.After sharing his vision with friends, Brad moved forward with founding CAUSEGEAR. Since 2011, the CAUSEGEAR brand has grown and faced many unique challenges. God has constantly provided the needed resources, as well as answers to the difficult questions that arise within a social enterprise.
What are some of the trials and triumphs you have faced in bringing your organization to where it is today?
One of CAUSEGEAR's goals is to show others a sustainable business model that provides dignified wages and high-quality products. CAUSEGEAR has faced many challenges with respect to logistics. This year in particular, we have been faced with production and shipment delays. CAUSEGEAR and our partners in India are committed not only to providing quality jobs, but also ethical business practices. In many contexts bribery is a tempting shortcut that we must combat.With regards to the big-picture, we are working to change an industry that has become comfortable with low prices at the cost of cheap labor. This is not an easy task.
How have you seen God provide/move/blow your mind? Any testimony to His greatness would be perfect here.
God has continued to provide opportunities to partner with other businesses and organizations that share our vision. It is through our partnership with The JUSTICE Conference that we developed a relationship with Bought Beautifully. As a social enterprise, we are constantly reminded that we cannot do everything on our own. God has reminded us at many points that He is in control of all things.As an organization what are you excited about right now?
We are excited to see a growing awareness among Western consumers. Many are realizing that low prices in the store often trace back to low wages and inhumane working conditions in the factory. We believe this growing awareness will eventually lead to lasting changes within the industry as consumers demand better working conditions.
We can't wait to see what the future holds for you. What are some of your hopes and goals for 2015? The next three years?
We are excited to be adding a new team of crafters this year. As CAUSEGEAR grows, we are able to provide more opportunities for our crafting teams. We hope to reach a level of production that allows for more full-time positions to be made available to our current crafters. We are also excited to expand the variety of products we offer.