TOMS – ONE DAY WITHOUT SHOES 2012

Just that one word, “TOMS,” needs no other recognition.  The entire world is aware of the mission statement for this amazing company.  It’s a pretty simple yet powerful mission – “One for One.“

In 2006, American traveler Blake Mycoskie befriended children in Argentina and found they had no shoes to protect their feet. Wanting to help, he created TOMS Shoes, a company that would match every pair of shoes purchased with a pair of new shoes given to a child in need. One for One. Blake returned to Argentina with a group of family, friends and staff later that year with 10,000 pairs of shoes made possible by TOMS customers.

Why shoes?  According to the TOMS website, “Shoes are a fundamental resource for protecting children’s health and providing them with opportunity.”

“Shoes simply mean everything to a Zambian child. I am called a doctor today because of the shoes my father bought, which motivated me to keep going to school and to work hard. Shoes were and are still a luxury in this country…” 
– Dr. Fwasa Singogo, Zambia

TOMS Founder and Chief Shoe Giver, Blake Mycoskie

The TOMS movement stems from the heart of the founder Blake Mycoskie, and is about people making everyday choices that improve the lives of children.  TOMS is currently giving to children in more than 20 countries worldwide and are expanding, “thanks to our awesome customers.”

TOMS has expanded their adventure to ONE FOR ONE eyewear.  With every pair you purchase TOMS will give a pair to a person in need.

On April 10, 2012, millions of people around the world joined the “One Day Without Shoes” movement to go a day without shoes. Celebrities and stars came out to support TOMS in the efforts to bring awareness to the children without shoes. Check out the One Day website to read stories that will not only inspire you but bring you tears and awareness of needs that go beyond our immediate world.

Many stars, such as Miley Cyrus don’t only wear TOMS shoes, but they joined the movement on April 10^th and took off their shoes in support of TOMS mission.  If you missed this years “One Day Without Shoes,” no worries, there is always next year.

How can you support TOMS?  Of course purchase a pair of shoes.  Think about it.  Every time you purchase a pair, a pair is donated to a child.  POWERFUL.  Follow @TOMS on Twitter, check out their Facebook page and Like it.