Becoming a force for good... An exercise in balancing purpose and profit. Trash and Stash Junk Removal was borne out of the global pandemic. A move towards action. Towards community. It was a reaction to mass consumerism & corporate greed. During hard times we found love and support. We found purpose. We believe in the "think local, act local" philosophy. The world is a big place. And global change is a problem too big for me to comprehend. But I can change. And I can help the people in my Charlotte- area community. Small everyday decisions that positively affect the people closest to me can make a big difference in all our lives. And if enough of us make these small incremental decisions to give back and do better, then that can move the "global needle." That's what we're trying to do. Make the choice to do the best we can as often as we can. Be thoughtful. Purposeful. Consistent. Learn and get better. We’re working on getting certified as a Benefits Corporation (B Corp) by B Labs. We're using the certification as both a guide and accountability tool. "Certified B Corporations are businesses that do more than make a profit. B Corps prioritize people and our planet in everything they do." - B Labs There are over 2,000 certified B corps in the US and Canada, some with familiar names. Companies like Patagonia, Ben & Jerry’s, Toms and New Belgium Brewing. There are 5 categories that need to be address as part of the B Corp certification process. Governance: We're now legally established as a Benefits Corporation ensuring that our company will always balance purpose & profits supported by an independent advisory committee. Workers: We pay all of our employees a living wage in addition to offering benefits that include funding HSA accounts to offset Marketplace Insurance Plans, cover vision, dental & cancer insurance, offer paid vacations, PTO & sick leave, performance bonuses, uniforms, match Simple IRA contributions, provide professional and personal development programs and give discounts on 2nd Life purchase opportunities. Community: We donate 1% of gross sales to the Isabella Santos Foundation and another 1% to the Anne Springs Close Greenway. We provide paid weekly volunteer time to our employees with established volunteer relationships at Envision Charlotte/ Innovation Barn, Junior Achievement of Central Carolinas, Bright Blessings & the Indian Land Action Council. Environment: We're dedicated to donate, resell and recycle the junk we pick up first. Before dumping. So far in 2023, we've kept 160k lbs of "junk" out of the landfill. We aim to reduce what goes to the landfill by 50% this year. Customers: We provide exceptional service (600+ ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ reviews) with established quality control and feedback mechanisms. We offer a service guarantee. Sources: https://www.trashandstash.com/4good/ https://www.trashandstash.com/b-corp-certified/