We created eco-friendly wireless chargers, jute tote bags, and bamboo travel lunch kits for students and faculty of Abington Friends School. These products are more eco-friendly than cheaper, entry level promotional products.
Who is Abington Friends School?
Abington Friends School is a Quaker school based in Jenkintown, PA. Founded in 1697, AFS is the oldest school in Pennsylvania to have operated continuously on the same piece of land, and one of the oldest schools in the nation. "As a Quaker (of Friends) school, Abington Friends School incorporates the Quaker testimonies of simplicity, peace, integrity, community, equality and stewardship into the daily life and education of our student. In addition to these testimonies, AFS honors the value that Quakers place on social justice, social action and reflective practices." (AFS)
What was the event?
With COVID-19 abruptly ending the 2019-20 school year, AFS needed a special gift for their staff as well as students moving on to college, high school, and middle school. Sloane W., Director of Parent Engagement, says “BlueStar helped us to create gift boxes for our senior class as well as celebratory moving up items for our fourth and eighth grade students. We also had a variety of end of year appreciation gifts for our entire faculty and staff made.”
What did we make?
There were a few separate groups receiving gifts for this project which meant that we had to tailor to different interests. For the students we wanted a product that would be both eco-friendly and appeal to a younger demographic. Together with Sloane we decided on an eco-friendly wireless charging pad. It is made of wheat straw, which is the stalk left over after wheat grains are harvested. The use of wheat straw reduces the amount of virgin plastic used in the charging pad. Additionally, it is easily portable which allows students to stay connected while on the go.
Next we focused on the hard-working faculty. We knew that due to COVID-19 much of the world was spending less time with friends and family. A great activity to remain socially-distanced but still see loved ones is an outdoor picnic! The bamboo fiber lunch box and utensils coupled with the jute tote allow the staff to carry everything they could need to the park for a picnic throughout the summer. Both of these products were made using material that is natural and less harmful to our planet than traditional plastics.
“Everyone has been overjoyed with the products. The bamboo cutlery and jute totes were especially valued by our faculty and the wheat straw wireless chargers have been a huge hit with the students.” said Sloane.
We asked why AFS chose better. by BlueStar.
Sloane says: “The better. by BlueStar line of products reflects AFS's commitment to the environment, sustainability and responsibility. The bamboo and wheat straw items are responsibly sourced and promote sustainability that other offerings do not. The items offered by better. by BlueStar encourage reuse and are eco-friendly. Our students, faculty and staff all value these qualities and it makes the gifts even more appreciated knowing they support these shared values.”
"Working with the better. by BlueStar team is always an easy and enjoyable experience. They offered lots of options, expertise and suggestions to fit our budgets. The proofs were prepared promptly, even during the pandemic, and they are always quick to respond to inquiries. There is not doubt we will continue to use BlueStar for all of our needs."