Mt. Vernon Register-News

Local

January 18, 2008

Company going green, helping kids



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By KANDACE MCCOY

kandace.mccoy@register-news.com

KEENES — A local fund-raising company is going green. And not only are they “eco-conscious,” they’re also giving back to the community.

Founded by Sarah Frey-Talley of the Wayne County-based Frey Farms, Growkids, is a fundraising company dedicated “to promoting earth-friendly products that students, parents, teachers and your community will be proud to support.” The purpose of the company is to “inspire preservation and environmental improvement” with the community, according to information released from the company. Products offered ensure not only successful fundraising efforts for local organizations, schools, or churches, but also educates participants on the importance of “living a greener, healthier lifestyle.”

According to information from the company, Growkids supports American manufacturers and Fair Trade certified suppliers, offering “exclusive brands ... while maintaining our commitment to the environment.” Organizations who purchase from Growkids keep 50 percent of the proceeds as well.

“I’m not ready to run off into the forest and forfeit all of the comforts of modern life ... but I am learning to walk a little softer on the earth,” said Frey-Talley in a release.

And it’s that message that the company wants to share with the community.

“We don’t expect tree huggers,” said Hillary Martin of Growkids.

“We want everyone to try a little harder. In selling our products, we’re not saying buy five of these and put your groceries in it, we just want people to be aware of where their grocery bags go.” And children can learn a lesson as well, Martin added. She said schools and organizations are buying the earth friendly products, such as a dog collar made out of 100 percent recycled bottles or a note pad, made out of 100 percent post- consumer recycled paper with soy ink designed for baby-sitters, and turning them into lessons about the environment.

All products, Martin stated, are also made in the United States and even packaged for shipment in recycled material.

For more information about Growkids you may call Martin at 835-4181 or visit its Web site: www.growkids.org.

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