We've always believed business can be a force for good. Long before we knew what a B Corp was, we were committed to community and our work having a greater purpose. Inspired by Patagonia's 1% for the Planet initiative, we launched our "10% for the Community" program in 2000. When we discovered early B Corps later, we knew we wanted to formalize and amplify the work we were (and still are) doing.
Our two-and-a-half-year B Corp certification was rigorous. We began with B Lab’s self-assessment, then partnered with a consultant for accountability and expertise. We implemented numerous improvements and changes following the initial filing, based on feedback from the assessment. Notably, our "10% for the Community" program evolved into a formalized independent fund to meet B Lab's "Designed to Give" model. We also reorganized as a Public Benefit Corporation, one of Kentucky’s first, solidifying our purpose alongside profit.
The process, while rewarding, presented challenges, especially in reconciling our seasonal business with B Lab's data-driven standards. As a small team, formal measurement was a new concept. Yet, formalizing practices and meeting third-party standards is validating. It introduced new best practices and a clear roadmap for recertification.
Beyond certification, internal changes were transformative. We established our Charitable Fund, raised wages to a Living Wage, expanded benefits, and made them more affordable for our staff. We formalized countless policies and organized more community service events. These standards now guide major decisions and prompt overdue documentation. B Corp requirements even led us to focus on markets that reflect our values and to move away from those that don’t.
Our B Corp status is more than a badge; it’s a living roadmap. While setting goals for more points, we're also exploring what our employees value more deeply. Externally, we hope B Corp status attracts like-minded customers. We're also strengthening our community presence, exemplified by our partnership with Canopy, an organization commitment to making Kentucky first in good business..
Ultimately, we hope that our B Corp certification demonstrates to our industry that ambitious goals are achievable, even in the face of labor shortages and reliance on gas-powered equipment. Profitability shouldn't come at the expense of taking good care of our team members. By leading, we hope to demonstrate that progress is necessary and achievable, fostering an interdependent community where purpose and profit are in balance. We envision deeper environmental measurement and increased customer engagement as part of our B Corp journey.
