OUR MISSION IN ACTION
Accompaniment is at the heart of our WORK
We get the job done. Our work with collectors and their families ends when they have a path out of poverty for good. We don’t prescribe one-time support; rather, we walk alongside families on their journey, providing the resources they identify as essential while we transform systems to be accountable to their success.
We Focus on the ‘First Mile’
We focus on the ‘First Mile’ of recycled material supply chains to improve the working conditions and livelihoods of recyclables collectors. Our model is designed to bring recognition to their work and improve responsible sourcing standards across the supply chain. Through a model of accompaniment, we walk alongside them to ensure they have a pathway to economic freedom, agency, and choice.
We Partner With, Not For
We believe those closest to a problem are also closest to the solution. That’s why we partner with collectors and their families, rather than prescribe solutions for them. In our direct programming, we listen to their needs, assess challenges against responsible sourcing standards, and then co-design improvements so community leaders can lead the change themselves.
Our Commitment is Holistic and Long-Term
Our accompaniments are a long-term commitment, addressing the essential needs of an individual, a family, and the entire ‘First Mile’ ecosystem. Together, we build sustainable, community-led solutions that create lasting change by addressing root causes.
Our Model: A Foundation of Accompaniment
Our program is built on four core pillars that work together to create lasting change. We don't follow a rigid, linear process; instead, we provide holistic support that addresses the interconnected needs of individuals, their businesses, and the broader recycling ecosystem. Listen
We Accompany Individuals and Their Families
Our first step is always to listen. We provide true wraparound support by accompanying individuals and their families to address the needs they identify as essential. This includes co-creating solutions for interconnected challenges like healthcare, education, and job training, ensuring a stable foundation for success.
We Invest in Collector-Owned Businesses
We walk alongside collectors to strengthen their livelihoods and improve productivity. We invest directly in their micro and small businesses, connecting them with the training, resources, and access to fair markets they need to build stable, dignified jobs that break the cycle of poverty for good.
We Connect the Supply Chain
A single business cannot succeed in isolation. We create a more just ecosystem by connecting businesses to collaborate across the supply chain, from individual collectors to small aggregators. This holistic approach allows for shared learning and accountability, improving responsible sourcing standards for everyone.
We Partner with Brands and Recyclers to Drive Change
We use our on-the-ground experience to partner with recyclers and brands, addressing the demand for ethically sourced materials and lifting industry standards. This hands-on experience allows us to advise brands, investors, and recyclers on creating ethical supply chains that are inclusive of all workers. Learn more about our Advisory Practice.
Our Impact at a Glance
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“Keeping the environment clean for my community means a lot to me. It's taking care of where I am living with my family, it is also help me to make money to care for my kids.” — Tony, collector from Haiti
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"Work has opened doors I never imagined. today, having a small business is one of the best things that has happened to our family." — Simone
OUR COMMUNITIES
Haiti
In Haiti, where our journey began, a 60% unemployment rate and a lack of a municipal waste management system . Our Program: We built a supply chain to collect recyclables that are left in the streets, canals, and burning in landfills and transform them into products with our brand partners.
Key Stat: Over 1,000 income opportunities supported to date, XX businesses received investments, XX children in our scholarship program...
Ghana
In Ghana, we collaborate with local partners like SOAR and rePATRN to invest in community-led recycling infrastructure. By supporting the launch of new processing equipment, we help connect collectors in schools and hospitals to larger markets.
Key Stat: Supporting the processing of PET plastics for the international market.
Taiwan
In Hualien County, we partner with the collectors and their families who rely on this work as their main source of income. Our subsidy program provides direct, reliable income that helps them pay for essentials like utility bills, healthcare, and rent.
Key Stat: Participants increased their collection volume by 15-20%.
JOIN OUR MISSION
Together, we can end poverty for good.