Levi Strauss cared about the community.
Upon his death in 1902, the San Francisco Call newspaper noted that his life had been devoted “not only to fostering the highest commercial conditions, but to the moral, social and educational welfare and development of the young men and women of the state.”
If Levi were alive today, I think he would be proud to know that his pioneering spirit thrives on through the Levi Strauss Foundation.
Since our founding in 1952, the foundation has invested more than $270 million in organizations that advance justice and opportunities for disadvantaged people around the globe. Our impact is possible thanks to our community partners’ courage and creativity, and the hard work of Levi Strauss & Co. employees, who drive profits for the company.
To celebrate our 60th anniversary, the foundation sponsored a competition during September called “Community Vote,” inviting employees to get to know five of our community partners in the Americas, Europe and Asia, and have a say in how to divide $60,000 among them.
Global Fund for Women, La Cocina, HIV Young Leaders Fund, Mercado Global and AIDS Care China—the participating community partners—made the experience dynamic and inspiring for all of us. While some shared stories and videos of their work, others conducted live presentations with employees to talk about the difference they make in their communities every day.In turn, the foundation organized “voting booths” in the company’s headquarter and affiliate offices to drive participation.
At the end of the month, based on employee votes, the Global Fund for Women received $25,000, the largest prize; La Cocina received $15,000; HIV Young Leaders Fund, $10,000; and Mercado Global and AIDS Care China were awarded $5,000 each.
“Community Vote” and our 60th anniversary underscored the pioneering spirit that our community partners bring to bear addressing some of the important issues and events of our day. We are proud to share their remarkable stories with company employees, whose hard work makes it possible for us to drive pioneering change around the globe.
This video illustrates how the Levi Strauss Foundation brings Levi Strauss’ values to life:
