Ahead of the holidays, the youth-led non-profit, Kickback Connect, is supporting underserved communities with a book and sneaker drive. The group is collecting these materials Monday to Friday from 10 am to 2 pm at 276 Carlaw Ave, Unit 280a.
The initiative was launched to help families facing uncertainty start the next year in a better space with access to educational material to empower the next generation. The idea behind the collection of sneakers is similarly tied to empowerment. Kickback Connect "connects the sneaker culture to communities and youth because the quality of the shoes and the stories behind them is conducive to a positive sense of identity. We personified the sneaker in a way where youth understand that success consists of smart, honest steps towards our dreams."
Youth-Led Holiday Sneaker Drives
The Kickback Connect Accepts Sneakers and Books for Kids in Need
Trend Themes
1. Youth-led Community Initiatives - There is an opportunity to leverage the energy and passion of young people to drive social change and make a positive impact on their local communities.
2. Sustainable Sneaker Culture - As the popularity of sneakers continues to grow, there is a need for more sustainable production and consumption practices to reduce waste and environmental harm.
3. Equitable Education Access - Ensuring all students have access to quality educational resources and materials is a crucial step in promoting social mobility and breaking down systemic barriers to success.
Industry Implications
1. Non-profit - Non-profit organizations have a unique opportunity to engage with young people and support their efforts to create positive change in their communities.
2. Footwear - As people become more aware of the social and environmental impact of their purchases, there is a growing demand for sustainable and socially responsible footwear brands.
3. Education - As the importance of equitable access to education is increasingly recognized, there is a need for innovative and scalable solutions that can bridge the gap for disadvantaged students.