Even the smallest act can make the biggest difference to a person in need. Such is the philosophy behind Project360, an exciting new brand created by Patrick Schwarzenegger, Nick Sheinberg and Kimberly Barth. Project360 is a line of Earth-friendly apparel and bracelets created to generate social awareness of important global issues. The line features a series of inspirational messages, each one representing a different worldly cause. Consumers can express support for these causes simply by wearing the product. Project360’s products are made from eco-leather, recycled leather and scrap materials, and are manufactured entirely in America. Each item comes with a motivational hang tag containing facts about the consumer’s chosen cause and suggestions on how to give back. Additionally, for every product sold, the company will donate a portion of its proceeds to a reputable charity affiliated with the selected cause. The six causes represented by Project360 are: AIDS, cancer, children in need, domestic violence, the environment, and homelessness and extreme poverty. Co-founders Patrick, Nick and Kimberly first struck up a working relationship last year at The Women’s Conference, an annual event organized by California’s First Lady Maria Shriver and Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger – or as Patrick calls them, “Mom and Dad.” Now, exactly one year later, they are previewing their line at the 2009 Women’s Conference. Patrick and Nick, both only 16, believe their new venture will empower others to make a positive impact on society. “People don’t realize just how much change they’re capable of,” explained Patrick. “Hopefully, we’ll inspire kids and adults alike to help those in need,” added Nick. Kimberly recalled her first encounter with the two best friends as they roamed the floor of the Women’s Conference, selling rubber bracelets for charity. “My first thought was, ‘Why aren’t these guys in school?’” said the fashion trendsetter. “And my next thought was, ‘We could turn this into something really special.’” Of course, Patrick and Nick normally do go to class, and are currently in their sophomore year of high school. Both love to play football and basketball, and also share a keen interest in business, which explains why they have devoted their evenings and weekends to working with Kimberly on the Project360 concept. Project360 will launch both its line and its e-commerce web site, www.teamproject360.com, in time for the ’09 holiday season. Online shoppers will be able to read profiles on various charities, scroll through photo galleries, register as Project360 Team Members and purchase their favorite Project360 merchandise. By using fashion as a vehicle to raise awareness for worldly causes, “Project360 hopes to unite people through positive change,” said Nick. “Yes, Project360 is a fashion statement. But it also makes an even bigger statement,” said Kimberly. “We’re saying that education and social consciousness is cool.” “We did more than design t-shirts; we got involved and now we’re asking everyone to join our team,” added Patrick. “Team Project360” hopes that before too long, people everywhere will “Join the Revolution” and wear the company’s products with pride, knowing that their contribution made the world a better place. And why not? Helping your fellow man never goes out of style.
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