How The Bra Recyclers Are at the Forefront of Women’s Empowerment for Women’s History Month

In celebration of Women's History Month, The Bra Recyclers proudly reflects on its journey as a woman-founded enterprise committed to fostering sustainability and empowerment. This month provides an opportunity to honor the incredible women who have contributed to our business and the broader realm of sustainability.

When Did Women’s History Month Start?

Women's History Month originated as a week-long celebration in Santa Rosa, California in 1978. The following year, it evolved into a national event in the United States. Since 1987, March officially commemorates Women's History Month, focusing on acknowledging and celebrating women's contributions and achievements throughout history.

From Sustainability to Female Empowerment

At the core of The Bra Recyclers is a profound commitment to sustainability, and our journey as a woman-founded business plays a crucial role in realizing this mission. Beyond entrepreneurship, being a woman-founded business signifies our dedication to driving positive change with a focus on sustainability.

Elaine Birks-Mitchell - Founder and CEO of The Bra Recyclers

As a woman-founded enterprise, we recognize the unique challenges and triumphs that women face daily. Our leadership, shaped by the experiences and insights of women, empowers us to approach our mission with a deep understanding of the importance of sustainability and environmental consciousness.

This perspective is interwoven into the fabric of our organization, influencing every decision and initiative we undertake. Every step we take, from forging partnerships to implementing sustainability programs, is guided by the understanding that sustainability begins with conscious choices.

Female-Led Recycling Ambassadors

As a woman-founded organization dedicated to sustainability, the Bra Recyclers is fortunate to collaborate with outstanding female-led businesses who share our commitment to environmental consciousness and women's empowerment.

Generous contributions of bras and underwear from our female-led Recycling Ambassadors, such as SOMA, Story Essentials, Filly Rose Intimates, and Bella Lacet, enable us to extend our impact to individuals in need while reducing our environmental footprint.

Impact Stories

We want to highlight the impact of our sustainability initiatives through the stories of the organizations we support and the positive effects on women.

"Through their [The Bra Recyclers] support, we have assisted over 500 women with vital essentials such as bras, compression garments, and prostheses needed during recovery."

Elizabeth Ayers-Cluff - Board President at Impact One Breast Cancer Foundation.

"Foster youth need undergarments, bras, and underwear to help them feel more stability in their journey. When I get supplies of undergarments from The Bra Recyclers, I can help my community."

Ashley Hill - Founder and Executive Director at Magdalena's Daughters.

"I personally remember how important your donations were to the girls I worked with. I had no clue how much each child was suffering just getting dressed in the morning. Underwear and bras. So important!! Yet so underrated."

Karena Cason - Former Director of Operations for Teen Sex Trafficking Survivors.

The Bra Recyclers are grateful for these partnerships, enabling us to make a sustainable impact on women's lives and fostering empowerment in their transformative journey.

How to Celebrate Women’s History Month

Beyond recognizing historical figures, Women's History Month acknowledges the ongoing need for women's empowerment and sustainability. You can join our mission by supporting sustainability through bra and underwear recycling, making eco-friendly purchases, or spreading awareness.

Celebrate remarkable women like Amelia Earhart, Elizabeth Blackwell, Harriet Tubman, Rosa Parks, Ruth Bader Ginsberg, and Susan B. Anthony, who have significantly impacted various fields, breaking barriers, and inspiring generations.

Since The Bra Recyclers mission is rooted in reducing our carbon footprint while empowering women, we want to take this opportunity to highlight a couple of women who have inspired our mission for a greener world.

Wangari Maathai

A Nobel Peace Prize laureate, Wangari Maathai was an environmental and political activist from Kenya. She founded the Green Belt Movement, an environmental organization focused on tree planting, conservation, and women's rights.

Jane Goodall

Renowned primatologist and ethologist Jane Goodall is best known for her extensive study of wild chimpanzees in Tanzania. 

She is also a passionate advocate for environmental conservation, animal welfare, and sustainable living.

Vandana Shiva

An environmental activist and author, Vandana Shiva is known for her work in promoting biodiversity, sustainable agriculture, and fair trade. 

She has been a strong advocate for the rights of farmers and the protection of traditional agricultural practices.

Your Support Fuels Sustainablility and Women’s Empowerment

Our commitment at The Bra Recyclers extends beyond Women's History Month. Join us in our ongoing efforts to make a sustainable and compassionate difference. Share this blog on social media to help continue supporting women in need by recycling your gently used bras and new underwear.

Be a part of the positive change we are making in women's lives globally.