KEEN Press Release 2015

Contact: Taara Hoffman, Executive Director
taara@girlventures.org
4115.864.0780 x306
San Francisco Non-Profit Awarded Grant
from fan-powered KEEN Effect program
KEEN funds and inspires responsible outdoor participation
San Francisco, CA – May 11, 2015 – Today, KEEN awarded GirlVentures with a $10,000
grant as part of its fan-activated KEEN Effect program. Designed to support projects
that fuel people’s passion for protecting the environment and promoting responsible
outdoor participation, the 2015 Spring KEEN Effect cycle received more than 800
applications. KEEN awarded seven, $10,000 grants to organizations around the world.
This funding will support GirlVentures’ outdoor adventure and leadership programs.
Each year they serve 300 diverse Bay Area girls, by connecting them with nature to
foster the next generation of environmental stewards. KEEN’s support will empower girls
to reach their full potential, as more than 90% of participants report that GirlVentures
has inspired them to make smart choices for healthy living, relate to others and their
environment wisely, and become effective and confident leaders.
“Being a part of the GirlVentures community for five years, I have had the privilege of
watching girls blossom into bright, capable young women through participation in our
programs,” said Taara Hoffman, GirlVentures’ Executive Director. “We are honored that
KEEN chosen to recognize our work and we look forward to our continued partnership.”
“At KEEN, we believe spending time outdoors is a key element to build strong
communities and a healthier planet. The KEEN Effect was designed to help fund the
hard-working non-profits that enable others to enjoy the outdoors,” said Kirsten
Blackburn, KEEN’s Giving Marketing Specialist.
KEEN has strived to be a company that cares for the outdoor community since it was
founded ten years ago. KEEN believes in the power of a brand to inspire others to
create positive change. This belief reflects the foundation of its corporate giving
program, Hybrid.Care.
Through Hybrid.Care, KEEN dedicates time and financial resources to social and
environmental organizations actively working towards the greater good. The company
honors its employees' commitment to volunteerism, supports its local community, and
embraces corporate responsibility. Since 2004, KEEN has distributed more than $8 million
in cash and resources to non-profit organizations around the globe.
About KEEN
Inspired by a love of the outdoors, KEEN Inc. manufacturer of hybrid outdoor and
casual products, including footwear, bags and socks, is dedicated to creating quality
products that support the lifestyles and outdoor adventures of active people around
the world. KEEN products can be found online and through more than 5,000 retail
locations in more than 60 countries, as well as in KEEN Garage retail stores in Portland,
Palo Alto, Tokyo, Prague and Toronto, where fans can enjoy the branded experience.
The company operations and culture reflect a stand-out commitment to building a
strong community and a healthier planet so that all can create, play, and care. Learn
more at www.keenfootwear.com.
About GirlVentures
Through outdoor adventure and leadership programs, GirlVentures empowers
adolescent girls to develop and express their inner strengths. As the only Bay Area
nonprofit of its kind, our transformative programs are accessible to all girls regardless of
their background. Two-thirds receive need-based financial assistance and all
participants are provided with gear, food and transportation. Learn more at
www.girlventures.org