SAAS Alumni Giving Back 

Above: Image from The Buy Nothing Project

Several of our alumni have recently begun working in the nonprofit world, giving back to their communities through conservation of resources, working with animals, and empowering urban youth to making healthier life-style choices. Read more about each below.

A little over a year ago, Rebecca Rockefeller ’87 and Liesl Clark began an “experimental hyper-local gift economy” on Bainbridge Island. In just 16 months, The Buy Nothing Project has become a worldwide social movement, growing to over 80,000 members in nine different countries with four hundred and fifteen groups and five hundred volunteers. The concept is to offer people a way to give and receive, share, lend, and express gratitude through a worldwide network of local gift economies – in short to buy nothing. The simple process begins with joining a group. Then you post anything you’d like to give away, lend, or share among neighbors. Ask for anything you’d like to receive for free or borrow. There is no buying, selling, trading, or bartering.

The non profit was recently featured on Grist, an online source of “intelligent, irreverent environmental news and commentary” that began in 1999. The article covers the concept of the gift communities and provides some examples of what is posted on the sharing sites. In addition, the article lists some other examples of startups that spread the spirit of generosity as well as work on solving some of our environmental challenges. READ THE ARTICLE

Check out The Buy Nothing Project to learn more about the project or to find a group in your neighborhood.

Founded in 2010, Andrea Maki’s ‘84 nonprofit organization, Wild Love Preserve (WLP), is a grass-roots, boots-on-the-ground nonprofit. As a result of Project WLP’s ongoing work in developing a fluid new model in bridging divides, Andrea was recently asked to submit materials for consideration to fill one of nine seats on the National Wild Horse and Burro Advisory Board, a three year appointment. Learn more about Project Wild Love Preserve.

Last year, Brandon Lee ‘07 began working with Extraordinary Futures, the nation’s first dance-based youth leadership development program. They provide creative opportunities, life skills, and arts-based mentorships that help urban youth grow into their fullest potential as artists and leaders in Seattle’s poorest and least educated neighborhoods.

Congratulations on your recent successes! SAAS is impressed and proud of your accomplishments.