Headbands of Hope

Headbands of Hope is a social enterprise founded in 2012 by Jess Ekstrom during her time at North Carolina State University. The company operates on a mission-driven model, where for every headband sold, a headband is donated to a child with cancer. The initiative aims to bring hope and joy to children battling cancer, recognizing the emotional and psychological impacts of the disease.

History

The idea for Headbands of Hope was conceived when Jess Ekstrom interned at a wish-granting organization for children with life-threatening illnesses. She noticed that many children liked to wear headbands after losing their hair to chemotherapy. This observation sparked the idea to start a company that could serve a dual purpose: to sell headbands and, in turn, donate headbands to children diagnosed with cancer.

Since its inception, Headbands of Hope has grown significantly, reaching children across the United States and in various parts of the world. The company has been featured in numerous media outlets and has partnered with several retail chains and hospitals to expand its reach and impact.

Mission and Impact

The core mission of Headbands of Hope is to spread hope in all girls and to remind them of their beauty during difficult times. For every headband sold, one is donated to a child with cancer. The company also focuses on raising awareness about childhood cancer and the importance of supporting children and their families through their cancer journey.

Headbands of Hope has donated headbands to every children's hospital in America and to hospitals in over 15 countries. The initiative not only provides a tangible item of comfort and confidence but also helps to foster a sense of community and support among children undergoing cancer treatment.

Products

Headbands of Hope offers a wide range of headbands for both children and adults. The product line includes various styles, such as knotted headbands, turban headbands, and scrunchies, designed to cater to different tastes and preferences. The headbands are made from high-quality materials and are available in numerous designs and colors.

In addition to headbands, the company has expanded its product line to include other accessories and apparel, all following the same buy-one-give-one model. This expansion allows customers to support the cause in various ways while enjoying fashionable and functional products.

Philanthropy

Beyond the one-for-one donation model, Headbands of Hope engages in various philanthropic activities. The company participates in hospital events, where they host headband decorating sessions for the children. These events provide a fun and creative outlet for the kids, allowing them to personalize their headbands and enjoy a break from their medical routines.

Headbands of Hope also collaborates with other organizations and initiatives that support children with cancer, aiming to create a larger network of support and advocacy for the cause.

Recognition

Headbands of Hope has received widespread recognition for its innovative approach to social entrepreneurship and its impact on the lives of children with cancer. The company has been featured in major media outlets and has received numerous awards for its social impact and business model.

Conclusion

Headbands of Hope stands as a testament to the power of social entrepreneurship and the positive impact businesses can have on society. Through its mission-driven approach, the company continues to bring hope and joy to children battling cancer, one headband at a time.