Inspired By Toms Shoes: Starting Something That Matters

Aug 11, 2012 | 2012 Articles, Lorie Lewis Ham, Pets, Rodent Ramblings

by Lorie Lewis Ham

I recently read Start Something That Matters by Blake Mycoskie, the founder of Toms Shoes. It was a book about how his business came to be, along with some great advice on starting a business of your own. A business whose foundation is built on giving back…making a difference.

I found the book filled with great advice and information, and very inspiring. I took notes all the way through and have a long list of things I want to implement with Kings River Life over time. The thing that most stuck with me was the theme evident in the title-Start Something That Matters. For anyone who doesn’t know the story of Toms Shoes–in a nutshell, for every pair of shoes they sell another pair will go to a child in need. You can learn more by reading the book and by checking out their website.

From the very beginning I wanted to do something that mattered with KRL and I hope I have managed to do so with our articles on animal rescue, our adoptable pet of the week, supporting the arts, literature, mental health, going green, and local charities–but this book inspired me to do more–to reach beyond myself. I immediately knew what that something would be and I’m here to share it with you our readers.

Rattie Ratz rat

From here forward for any ads that someone buys from KRL we will give 10% to animal rescue. Here’s how it works–you buy an ad from KRL and we will give 10% to one of three rescues: Animal Compassion Team in Fresno, Cat House On The Kings in Parlier, or Rattie Ratz Rescue in the bay area of California.

You can either choose which rescue you want the money to go to, or it will go to the featured rescue of the month–which will rotate on a monthly basis beginning in September. This may be small to begin with but every little bit counts and this will remain our policy from here on so hopefully someday it will be a big amount and we can take part in saving the lives of many animals!

Cats at Cat House On The Kings

As time goes along, I have other ideas I would like to implement–ones that will benefit the arts and literacy and perhaps even mental health awareness groups. But this is step one and I am so excited about it!

Sarah, one of the many dogs saved by ACT

Of course KRL will always have articles and short stories that are just plain fun or informative as well, but our main goal will always be to make a difference in the world we live in because no matter how big or small every little bit counts–whether it be through our content or through finances. So next time you’re thinking about buying some advertising, please consider us. Email me for more information at life@kingsriverlife[dot]com by replacing the [dot] with a period.

And if you’re looking for an inspiring book whether you run a business or not, I highly recommend Start Something That Matters.


Click here to buy this book & you help support Kings River Life & Indie Booksellers

Lorie Lewis Ham is our Editor-in-Chief and an enthusiastic contributor to various sections, coupling her journalism experience with her connection to the literary and entertainment worlds. Explore Lorie’s mystery writing at Mysteryrat’s Closet.

3 Comments

  1. Love this idea! Keep it up!

    Reply
  2. I love this idea, Lorie. I’m passionate about animals rescue and will check out your advertising.

    Reply
  3. Thank you so much for including Rattie Ratz! Your support of our organization is truly appreciated.

    Reply

Trackbacks/Pingbacks

  1. The Cat House on the Kings 20 Year Anniversary | Kings River Life Magazine - [...] need to specify that they are the rescue you would like it to go to. You can learn more…
  2. Happy Endings: An Animal Rescue Adventure | Kings River Life Magazine - [...] of three rescues–Cat House On The Kings, ACT and Rattie Ratz–you can learn more in a recent article. Every…

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