Press Releases
Alex and Ani Launches Little Brown Bear Charm to Benefit the Child Mind Institute
Partnership Celebrated at CHARITY BY DESIGN Event in New York City
NEW YORK, NY – February 4, 2015 — The Child Mind Institute and CHARITY BY DESIGN are excited to announce the launch of the Little Brown Bear charm, which will be available for the first time through ALEX AND ANI and directly benefits the Child Mind Institute, the only independent nonprofit organization exclusively dedicated to transforming mental health care for children.
“We are thrilled to be partnering with ALEX AND ANI and CHARITY BY DESIGN,” said Child Mind Institute President and Founder Harold S. Koplewicz, MD. “The money we raise through this generous partnership will help us change the trajectory for so many struggling kids.”
20% of bangle sales will go to the Child Mind Institute. The charm, with its teddy bear image, is meant to be a reminder of the carefree days of childhood.
The bangle was introduced at an event on February 4th at ALEX AND ANI SoHo. 15% of all sales and 20% of all Little Brown Bear Bangle sales at the event went directly to the Child Mind Institute. Chris Mack, philanthropist and Child Mind Institute board member, hosted the event, which featured candy bars provided by Handsome Dan’s and (+) Energy Punch.
“It is truly an honor to partner with the Child Mind Institute through the exciting new Little Brown Bear launch within our CHARITY BY DESIGN collection,” said Nicki Maher, Vice President of ALEX AND ANI | CHARITY BY DESIGN. “We share their dedication and commitment in transforming mental health care for children everywhere as it is extremely needed in communities nationwide. We hope this new collaboration will not only empower those who learn about it, but also act as a reminder that they too can make a difference.”
CHARITY BY DESIGN is a unique division of ALEX AND ANI focused solely upon giving. Since its inception, the company has been able to give back over $18 million to partner charities and various other nonprofit organizations. ALEX AND ANI is currently partnered with 45 nonprofits.
The Little Brown Bear charm was first unveiled and exclusively sold nationwide this past September through retail partner Bloomingdale’s to commemorate a new philanthropic partnership with the brand. It also represents and is inspired by Bloomingdale’s continued support for the Child Mind Institute through the annual plush favorite, the Little Brown Bear by designer Gund®. Since the exclusive 2014 launch through Bloomingdale’s, the bangle has raised over $28,000 for the Child Mind Institute
About the Child Mind Institute (childmind.org) The Child Mind Institute is the only independent nonprofit organization exclusively dedicated to transforming mental health care for children everywhere. Founded by Dr. Harold S. Koplewicz and Brooke Garber Neidich, our organization is committed to finding more effective treatments for childhood psychiatric and learning disorders, building the science of healthy brain development, and empowering children and their families with help, hope, and answers. The Child Mind Institute does not accept funding from the pharmaceutical industry.
About ALEX AND ANI
ALEX AND ANI creates meaningful, eco-conscious jewelry and accessories to empower the light in you. Each piece is designed by Carolyn Rafaelian, Founder, Creative Director and CEO. Carolyn believes that every individual has a positive message to share with the world, and by incorporating powerful symbolism into each product, ALEX AND ANI provides a vehicle for consumers to express their individuality. ALEX AND ANI is committed to giving back to the world that we live in. By using recycled materials with eco-conscious processes and through our CHARITY BY DESIGN division, ALEX AND ANI positively impacts our planet and our communities. CHARITY BY DESIGN has strengthened non-profit organizations through innovative partnerships and collaborative experiences resulting in donations of over $18 million. An Inc. 500 Company, ALEX AND ANI has retail stores in addition to retail partners worldwide. Its World Headquarters is located in the Greater Providence, Rhode Island area, where its products are designed and assembled with love. Please visit alexandani.com for more information.
