The VF Foundation Impact Report - Active Sustainable Inclusive Impactful

Photo courtesy of ISkateistan

ACTIVE. SUSTAINABLE. INCLUSIVE. IMPACTFUL. THE VF FOUNDATION IMPACT REPORT FISCAL YEAR 2024 April 2, 2023 – March 30, 2024

IMPACT REPORT

VISION & MISSION

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WE ARE COMMITTED TO POWERING WHAT’S POSSIBLE At VF Corporation, we care deeply about the communities where VF operates around the world and The VF Foundation complements our business by serving as a key resource to connect, engage and support these communities. The Foundation combines the unique strengths of our business alongside our philanthropy and leverages our resources and strategic focus to invest in community partners who embody our core values.

In addition to providing monetary grants, our employees give their time, talents and resources to create meaningful impact in our communities. They volunteer alongside organizations the Foundation supports and they donate generously to employeegiving campaigns to further enhance our collective impact.

We’re committed to testing and powering new ideas and fueling the good work being done around the globe. We are helping empower workers and families in our supply

chain communities through educational training. We are working to transform our industry by funding organizations that are innovating sustainable materials, supporting growers who implement regenerative agricultural practices, and promoting the adoption of circular product design and development.

The stories in this report reflect just a few of the inspiring organizations that have turned The VF Foundation’s grant funding into impact. We are proud to take this moment to elevate the work of our grantees and even prouder to be their partner.

Bracken Darrell President & CEO, VF Corporation & Chair, VF Foundation Board

We envision a world of can-do possibilities. Together, The VF Foundation and VF Corporation’s portfolio of brands invested nearly $16 million* in monetary grants and product donations in FY 2024 to positively impact millions of people and their communities.

This year’s report showcases the causes and people who share our belief that collaboration is powerful and working together will drive positive impact across our communities.

collaborators and philanthropic supporters across the globe who have joined us on this journey. They, too, are advancing possibilities, and we couldn’t achieve these positive changes without them.

Alongside our partners, we are redefining the possibilities and advancing a more active, sustainable and inclusive future. We are excited to share their stories and we are honored to help them succeed. You’ll see that they are reshaping communities and driving change that we hope will last for years to come. And we look forward to building upon their progress highlighted in this report.

Gloria Schoch Senior Director, Global Impact, VF Corporation & Executive Director, VF Foundation

Together, we have helped amplify our resources with internal and external stakeholders and powered collective action.

Their stories show us that transformative impact can occur when we work together and share knowledge and learnings for positive change. As always, we are grateful for the community partners, business

* The VF Foundation invested $3,846,500 in grantmaking in FY 2024 * VF Corporation donated $11,943,158 in monetary and product donations in FY 2024

Photo courtesy of First Descents

FY 2024

FY 2024

IMPACT REPORT

VISION & MISSION

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Photo courtesy of Trust for Public Land

WE POWER POSITIVE SOCIETAL IMPACT AND SYSTEMS CHANGE TO ADVANCE A MORE ACTIVE, SUSTAINABLE AND INCLUSIVE WORLD

FY 2024

IMPACT REPORT

VISION & MISSION

WE ARE ON A MISSION FOR GOOD

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“Inspired by our business and brands, we believe in big thinking and bold collaboration.”

OUR PARTNERS ARE THE INNOVATORS AND SOLUTION-SEEKERS WHO ARE DELIVERING POSITIVE SOCIETAL IMPACT FOR PEOPLE AND PLANET. Since the Foundation’s inception in 2002, we have granted more than $73 million and reached nearly 15 million people worldwide in partnership with VF’s brands and people.

We are committed to supporting community partners who embody our core values through the following program areas:

Bracken Darrell, President & CEO, VF Corporation & Chair, VF Foundation Board

THRIVING OUTSIDE We believe in the power of nature and the importance of making it accessible to all to fuel active and inclusive communities.

PROTECTING OUR PLANET We believe we must be innovative global stewards, helping drive a more sustainable apparel industry and outdoor recreation economy.

POWERING POTENTIAL

Photo courtesy of Girls at Work

We believe in unlocking economic opportunity through education and fostering belonging across the apparel sector, outdoor recreation industry and skilled trades to fuel the passions and dreams of the leaders of tomorrow.

HUMANITARIAN RELIEF We believe in supporting humanitarian relief and recovery efforts when disasters strike communities where VF operates around the world because helping others is a responsibility we all share.

FY 2024

IMPACT REPORT

TOGETHER, WE CREATE GENERATIONAL IMPACT The VF Foundation is proud to be a catalyst for good. We build on our values and nurture innovative causes and organizations.

Our grants help transform the lives and trajectories of people in the communities we serve.

We invest in collaborative partnerships through direct service grants, workforce training and development, capacity-building, early stage research, promising pilots and education. We help find solutions in the areas where we can have the most impact. And we are honored, in this report, to highlight some of the stories about the inspiring people and organizations we support.

Included in this report are facts and figures provided to The VF Foundation by grantees in FY 2024 Results Reports.

VISION & MISSION

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4DWN

HAWAI’I COMMUNITY FOUNDATION

ADM CAPITAL FOUNDATION

INDUSTRIAL COMMONS

BEYOND SPORT FOUNDATION

INTERNATIONAL COMITTEE OF THE RED CROSS

SKATEISTAN

KISS THE GROUND

SOIL HEALTH INSTITUTE

MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART DENVER

SOS OUTREACH

CAMBODIAN CHILDREN’S FUND

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF WOMEN IN CONSTRUCTION

SMALLHOLDER FARMERS ALLIANCE

CHILDREN’S MUSEUM OF DENVER

NATIONAL FOREST FOUNDATION

CIVIC CENTER CONSERVANCY

NATIONAL SPORTS CENTER FOR THE DISABLED

THE SKATEPARK PROJECT

NO BARRIERS

THE VENTURE OUT PROJECT

CREATIVES WANT CHANGE

ORANGE COUNTY COASTKEEPER

THINK BEYOND

DENVER PUBLIC SCHOOLS FOUNDATION

OUTDOOR AFRO

TRUST FOR PUBLIC LAND

FASHION SCHOLARSHIP FUND

OUTDOOR ALLIANCE

UNITED NATIONS FOUNDATION

FIRST DESCENTS

OUTDOOR RECREATION ROUNDTABLE

FORUM FOR THE FUTURE

PARADOX SPORTS

UNITED WAY OF GREATER GREENSBORO

GIRL SCOUTS OF COLORADO

PROTECT OUR WINTERS

GIRLS AT WORK

PROTECT OUR WINTERS EUROPE

GIVE 2 ASIA

REDRESS

GREENSBORO CHAMBER FOUNDATION

REGENERATIVE RISING

WORLD BUSINESS COUNCIL FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

GUILFORD EDUCATION ALLIANCE

RISE

WORLD WILDLIFE FUND

BIOMIMICRY INSTITUTE BUSINESS FOR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY CAMBER OUTDOORS

COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY FOUNDATION

SALAZAR CENTER FOR NORTH AMERICAN CONSERVATION SHIMMY

THE NATURE CONSERVANCY THE RESILIENCE FUND

WATER.ORG WATERAID WOMEN’S WILDERNESS

FY 2024

IMPACT REPORT

VISION & MISSION

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BREAKING DOWN OUR IMPACT*

5%

THRIVING OUTSIDE | $1,146,666 30%

30%

GRANTS BY PROGRAM AREA

35%

PROTECTING OUR PLANET | $1,359,167

POWERING POTENTIAL | $1,163,166

HUMANITARIAN RELIEF | $177,500

$3,846,500** GRANTED IN FY 2024

2,344,694 PEOPLE REACHED

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COUNTRIES REACHED

58

PARTNERS *Aggregate of data provided by grantees in FY 2024 Results Reports **Amounts may not sum due to rounding

VISION & MISSION

IMPACT REPORT

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GOVERNANCE & EVALUATION Our mission to help achieve lasting impact anchors our grantmaking. Solicited applications are reviewed and evaluated twice annually by the Foundation’s Global Grants Review Committee, consisting of cross-functional leadership representing VF’s business and brands. Foundation staff and the committee ensure applications have strong alignment with the Foundation’s impact goals and program areas. Recommended grants are subsequently reviewed by the Foundation’s Board of Directors for final grant consideration.

Each year, The VF Foundation asks grantees to self-report data through a grantee results report on estimated program reach, alignment with Foundation program area(s), populations served (by age and household income level), challenges faced, program success factors and progress made on grant and programmatic goals. Submitted data is reviewed, vetted and aggregated for impact measurement and reporting purposes. *Aggregate of data provided by grantees in FY 2024 Results Reports

DEMOGRAPHICS OF INDIVIDUALS REACHED*

24%

0-13 Years

37%

26+ Years

AGE 29%

11%

14-18 Years

19-25 Years

31%

≥ Poverty Level

HOUSEHOLD INCOME 69%

< Poverty Level

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Photo courtesy of SOS Outreach

FY 2024

FY 2024

IMPACT REPORT

THRIVING OUTSIDE

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THRIVING OUTSIDE Expanding access to the powerful benefits of nature. We are helping to connect more people to the healing, transformative joy of the great outdoors. We support organizations that are creating outdoor experiences for all and introducing more people to the wonders of nature.

Photo courtesy of No Barriers

IMPACT REPORT

THRIVING OUTSIDE

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4DWN ISSUE:

IMPACT:

In Dallas, Texas, the most economically

With support from The VF Foundation and

challenged communities are oftentimes

Dickies®, 4DWN was able to address these

notorious food, infrastructure and

community challenges by fueling the evolution

recreational deserts, which can

and capacity of its programming intersecting

perpetuate challenges in residents’

with recreation, education and neighborhood

health, access and well-being.

stakeholder cultivation.

“Thanks to The VF Foundation and Dickies®, we were able to build the first Vertical Ramp Vertical Farm, an educational space and business incubator. It has been leveraged to teach high school students about food systems, recreation and quality of life.”

Rob Cahill, Co-Founder, 4DWN

Photo by Anthony Lazon-Conde courtesy of 4DWN

FY 2024

IMPACT REPORT

THRIVING OUTSIDE

Photo courtesy of 4DWN

FY 2024

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4DWN

For the People, For the Planet | Dallas, Texas Named for “four wheels down,” which is short for a successful landing of a skateboard trick, 4DWN began as a free skate park for youth to skate, meet peers, experience art, music and more. The park is located in an industrial neighborhood surrounded by wholesale food warehouses.

Rob Cahill, Co-Founder of 4DWN, said that they watched trucks of unused food drive by their community going to landfills.

“We knew that food could be used for human consumption, to feed animals or as compost instead of going to a landfill and adding to greenhouse gas emissions,” Rob said.

So, the vision for 4DWN expanded and became one of the only skate parks in the country with an urban farm. Today, their Safe Skate Space draws hundreds of participants weekly and is a popular place for kids to congregate, skate and volunteer. Their Food Distribution Program provides weekly meals to families in need.

They host community events that attract hundreds monthly and they host large skate industry events that bring thousands of people to their facility.

“With funding from The VF Foundation and Dickies®, we were able to expand our Safe Skate Space to be open seven days a week,” Rob explained. “Our Circular Food System grew in volume, impact and complexity; feeding more people, rescuing and cultivating more food, sparking businesses and careers, adding partners, engaging more volunteers and developing the leaders of tomorrow. And our Creative Coalition celebrated local artists with more exhibitions and installations, creating commissions and commercial jobs for new artists.”

$50,000 GRANT

5,000

families benefited from the food distribution program

FY 2024

IMPACT REPORT

THRIVING OUTSIDE

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TRUST FOR PUBLIC LAND

ISSUE:

IMPACT:

Based on The Trust for Public Land’s

With support from The VF Foundation, playgrounds

research, in the U.S., 28 million children

and schoolyards at nine Tribal schools and 28

do not have a park within a 10-minute walk

Los Angeles Unified School District schools are

from home. In low-income communities, parks

becoming nature-rich, areas for recreation,

average half the size, are lower quality and

education and community gathering.

more prone to flooding than parks in other areas. Additionally, one-third of Native American children live in poverty. While their history is rooted in nature, Tribal communities often lack resources to create or sustain enriching outdoor spaces.

Mary Chranko, Senior Director of Corporate Partnerships, Trust for Public Land

Photo courtesy of Trust for Public Land

“Funding from The VF Foundation galvanized our LA 28x28 Program, helping us construct Castellanos Elementary Schoolyard, increasing community green space by 30 percent and serving 16,000 community members.”

FY 2024

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Photo courtesy of Trust for Public Land

TRUST FOR PUBLIC LAND Reimagining Community Schoolyards | Los Angeles, California

30% 2,000

increase in community green space, serving 16,000 community members at Castellanos Elementary in Los Angeles

community members engaged in creating thematically distinct and culturally relevant designs for three of TPL’s Tribal schoolyards

Trust for Public Land’s Tribal Schoolyards Pilot program is a partnership with the Bureau of Indian Education. With support from The VF Foundation, playgrounds and schoolyards at nine Tribal schools and 28 Los Angeles Unified School District schools are becoming nature-rich areas for recreation, education and community gathering.

“While many people don’t live near parks, nearly 80 million people in the U.S. do live within a 10-minute walk of a public school.

But, the full potential of school playground resources is rare,” explained Mary Charnko, Senior Director of Corporate Partnerships.

“This funding not only seeded and catalyzed our Tribal Schoolyards Pilot Program, it engaged local communities to participate in the design of their playgrounds and

galvanized our ‘LA 28x28 Program’ to green 28 schoolyards by the 2028 Olympics.”

Grant funds also helped TPL advocate at the national and state level to lift barriers to creating community schoolyards in Tribal communities and across the U.S. “We were also able to hire TPL’s first Associate Director of Tribal Schoolyards, of Choctaw, Lakota, and Dakota origins,” Mary said.

“And we hired a Land Trust Alliance Fellow to develop relationships with Northern Cheyenne Tribal members and students.”

$250,000 GRANT

FY 2024

IMPACT REPORT

THRIVING OUTSIDE

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SKATEISTAN ISSUE:

IMPACT:

Based on Skateistan’s research across many

Funding from The VF Foundation and Vans®

European, Middle Eastern, African and

helped provide the financial and technical

Southeast Asian locations, children face

support needed to run Skateistan’s sport and

increasing challenges including violence,

educational programs in eight EMEA locations

social isolation, lack of mental health and

including South Africa, Kenya, Iraq, Jordan,

psychosocial support services. As well, there

Albania, Belgium, Lebanon and Sweden.

is a lack of access to sports programs for women, girls and children with disabilities.

Photo courtesy of Skateistan

89% 77%

of Skateistan partners have increased capacity to deliver and grow programs

of participants report positive feelings of well-being

FY 2024

IMPACT REPORT

THRIVING OUTSIDE

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SKATEISTAN Skateistan in a Box

“When you skate, you learn to keep trying even if you fall down. It helps you become strong and to never give up.”

| Europe, Middle East and Africa & Southeast Asia 15-year-old program participant

The Skateistan in a Box initiative is an international programs partnership model that mobilizes funding, resources, knowledge and more for organizations around the world.

“Skateistan in a Box builds skateboarding infrastructure and schools, delivers programs and equipment and facilitates a network of social-skate projects,” explained James Green, Head of Philanthropy at Skateistan.

$100,000 GRANT

“Together with these partners, we can offer skateboarding and educational programs for free, and provide all necessary gear and resources to children who might otherwise lack access, including those in settlements and refugee camps.”

Funding from The VF Foundation and Vans® helped provide the financial and technical support needed to run Skateistan’s sport and educational programs in eight EMEA locations including South Africa, Kenya, Iraq, Jordan, Albania, Belgium, Lebanon and Sweden.

Funding also helped to pilot “The Box” classroom and mobile skatepark prototype in Berlin, providing leadership training and funding for social skateboarding organizations aligned with Skateistan’s mission in Europe.

Photo by Andy Buchanan courtesy of Skateistan

Skateistan (“Land of Skateboarding”) provides safe, child-friendly places for at-risk kids to build healthy relationships with adults as they learn, play and express themselves.

Programs ensure learners with special needs, refugees and other groups who often lack access to outdoor recreation are included in free skateboarding and sport-based education programs.

FY 2024

IMPACT REPORT

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PARADOX SPORTS & NO BARRIERS ISSUE: Based on research by Paradox Sports and No Barriers, data reveals the U.S. is rich in enthusiasm for the outdoors, but has inconsistent access and infrastructure. This phenomenon is referred to as the Nature Gap. Barriers to participation in outdoor recreation include limitations on time, money, transportation, adaptive equipment and infrastructure, social isolation, limited access

IMPACT: With funding provided by The VF Foundation, No Barriers programs served 224 individuals at their Mountain Campus in Northern Colorado to begin to address the Nature Gap, expand their horizons, improve mental and physical health, foster belonging and create meaningful connections to the natural world.

to nearby natural areas and lack of information

Photo courtesy of Paradox Sports

regarding activities.

“Our program is designed to provide life-changing opportunities, build community, self-esteem and self-reliance and contribute to overall positive mental health.”

Becky Lindstrom, Development Manager, Paradox Sports

IMPACT REPORT

THRIVING OUTSIDE

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Photo courtesy of No Barriers

FY 2024

NO BARRIERS Accessible Mountain Campus Experience | USA With funding provided by The VF Foundation, No Barriers programs served 224 individuals at their Mountain Campus in Northern Colorado. They provided accessible outdoor experiences to people with disabilities who could not afford adaptive equipment, veterans healing from the mental and emotional trauma of their service and increased youth participation in outdoor activities.

Programs also provided full-time caregivers a chance to unplug and enjoy the solitude of nature. Activities included paddle boarding, rock climbing, outdoor yoga, mindfulness practice in an outdoor setting, hiking and a high ropes course.

$25,000 GRANT

PARADOX SPORTS Grand Teton Adaptive Climbing Trip | USA

“I would 100% recommend this experience.

This program brings hope. With hope and growth, wonderful things happen.”

No Barriers program participant

Paradox “Get Outside” programs are designed to provide free, life-changing opportunities for veterans, build community, self-esteem and self-reliance and contribute to overall positive mental health. With funding from The VF Foundation, Paradox team leaders summited the Grand Teton with nine combat veterans. As one of the most iconic climbing destinations in the U.S., the Grand Teton trip offered veterans an opportunity to advance their climbing skills, overcome physical and mental challenges

and forge lasting relationships through this transformational experience. This focus on veterans highlights a commitment to creating a welcoming environment within the outdoor and climbing communities that participants can rely on for ongoing support and encouragement.

$25,000 GRANT

IMPACT REPORT

THRIVING OUTSIDE

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SOS OUTREACH ISSUE:

IMPACT:

Based on SOS Outreach’s research, while

With support from The VF Foundation, SOS

skiing and snowboarding are popular sports,

expanded its Career Development Program,

the truth is many young people do not feel

a seven-week job skills development and

represented, included or welcomed on the

outdoor internship initiative that connects

mountains of winter resorts. Therefore, they

youth with leading outdoor industry partners

don’t try these outdoor activities and they

to build connections and foster their passions

don’t see themselves in careers relating to

on and off the mountain.

snow sports because they have not been exposed to opportunities and possibilities to pursue them.

25% 91%

of the SOS Alumni Network served as mentors, volunteers and staff

of youth reported that SOS gave them opportunities to be leaders in their communities and in the outdoor industry through their work experiences

Photo courtesy of SOS Outreach

FY 2024

FY 2024

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“Smartwool® employees joined us for Ride Day, volunteering and experiencing our programs with our youth. They also joined our fundraiser in Silverton, Colorado as a sponsor for prize giveaways and to work alongside more than 50 members of our SOS community at our First Tracks event.”

Photo courtesy of SOS Outreach

Seth Ehrlich, Executive Director, SOS

SOS OUTREACH Career Development Pipeline | Western Region, USA With support from The VF Foundation, SOS expanded its Career Development Program, a seven-week job skills development and outdoor internship initiative that connects youth with leading outdoor industry partners.

“Our program’s curriculum is informed by participant feedback and it has reinforced our belief that simply providing gear and access alone isn’t going to change the landscape of the winter sports industry,” explained Seth Ehrlich, Executive Director. “SOS develops a sense of belonging and community for participants, builds social and emotional learning skills and encourages strong character by applying core values through community service.”

$25,000 GRANT

Funding from The VF Foundation helped SOS double Career Development program sites from three to six, including Denver, Summit County, and Eagle, Colorado as well as Park City, Utah and North Lake and South Lake Tahoe in California and Nevada. “Support from The VF Foundation also helped the SOS Alumni Network engage 48 alumni as mentors, volunteers and staff,” Seth said. “This helps participants deepen their sense of belonging through seeing young adults just like them as leaders in the organization.”

FY 2024

IMPACT REPORT

THRIVING OUTSIDE

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THE SKATEPARK PROJECT ISSUE:

IMPACT:

Based on The Skatepark Project’s research, over

With funding from The VF Foundation and Vans® this initiative

47,000 residents live within a half-mile radius of

helped to revitalize the Brooklyn Banks, an iconic skateboarding

the Manhattan side of the Brooklyn Bridge with

spot and cultural touchstone for New York skate and action

below-average access to parks and open space

sports dating back to 1972, by providing quality outdoor

for gathering, play and relaxation.

recreational spaces for local youth. It is unlocking the potential of forgotten spaces under the Brooklyn Bridge, creating a new type of urban community park that nurtures connection, physical activity and resilience.

Photo courtesy of Lanna Apisukh

“The Skatepark Project and Vans® teamed up to host a ribbon cutting event and Go Skate Day at the Brooklyn Banks, attracting hundreds of visitors, promoting a sense of community and establishing this as a hub for skateboarding culture.”

Benjamin Anderson Bashein, CEO, The Skatepark Project

IMPACT REPORT

THRIVING OUTSIDE

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THE SKATEPARK PROJECT

Photo courtesy of Lanna Apisukh

FY 2024

Brooklyn Banks Skate Park | New York City With help from a coalition of community support and funding from The VF Foundation and Vans®, the Brooklyn Banks skate park in New York City reopened and is now helping to establish a legacy of unity, connection, and urban renewal.

Spearheaded by The Skatepark Project, the Brooklyn Banks initiative is transforming empty lots into vibrant green spaces and play areas. They are creating safe and welcoming public spaces, including free community skate parks and access to free skate equipment and programming.

140,000

people expected to use the Brooklyn Banks Skate Park each year

“Our focus is on providing opportunities for individuals of all backgrounds, ages, and abilities to engage in healthy outdoor recreation and form relationships,” said Benjamin Anderson Bashein, Chief Executive Officer. “Low-income communities often have fewer public recreational spaces than

more affluent communities. With fewer opportunities to participate in physical activities, these communities experience widening gaps in health outcomes.”

Benjamin explained that The VF Foundation funds played a vital role in community-based advocacy which led to the renovation of the skate park. “Since its reopening, the park has become a hub of activity for residents and visitors,” Benjamin said. “It has breathed life into the skate spot and also fostered a sense of belonging within the community.”

$250,000 GRANT

FY 2024

IMPACT REPORT

PROTECTING OUR PLANET

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Photo courtesy of Trust for Public Land

PROTECTING OUR PLANET Seeding innovative, sustainable solutions. We partner with organizations and movements that help grow the fashion and outdoor industries’ role in fueling regenerative practices that help to create a positive relationship with nature.

FY 2024

IMPACT REPORT

PROTECTING OUR PLANET

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SMALLHOLDER FARMERS ALLIANCE ISSUE:

IMPACT:

Based on research by the Smallholder Farmers Alliance,

Grant funding from The VF Foundation made it possible

Haiti’s agricultural economy has been in crisis for

for farmers to scale up regenerative agriculture practices,

decades due to deforestation and a lack of training and

including regeneratively-sourced cotton; provide micro loans

resources for smallholder farmers (farmers tending to

and training for farmers; expand market opportunities and

less than five acres). Smallholder farmers need ways

educate farmers on sustainable agriculture and agroforestry

to grow, transplant and look after trees, earn money,

practices.

practice sustainable agriculture and expand their

250 farms grew regeneratively-sourced cotton this year

150 ~5,784 farms directly impacted by expanding markets for smallholder producers

Smallholder farmers and their families were impacted by this grant

Photo by Thomas Norielle, courtesy of Smallholder Farmers Alliance

markets for selling produce.

FY 2024

IMPACT REPORT

PROTECTING OUR PLANET

“This has been an ongoing partnership with The VF Foundation. Among other accomplishments, it has led to our farmers producing an early example of a verified regenerative crop.”

Photo by Thomas Noreille, courtesy of Smallholder Farmers Alliance

Hugh Locke, Co-founder, Smallholder Farmers Alliance

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SMALLHOLDER FARMERS ALLIANCE Haiti Vert Program | Haiti Based on research by the Smallholder Farmers Alliance (SFA), smallholder farmers grow more than half the food consumed in many countries in the developing world and they are essential for global food security, reforestation and women’s economic empowerment. “The Smallholder Farmers Alliance was created because we know that smallholder farmers can reach their full potential through an entrepreneurial model of development,” explained Hugh Locke, the SFA’s Co-founder.

“Several years ago, the organization was fueled by our partnership with The VF Foundation and Timberland®. Today, grant funding from The VF Foundation makes it possible for us to add farms, training capacity and infrastructure to our regenerative program.”

The VF Foundation grant funding is also seeding the launch of a new SFA service to market smallholder produce to larger buyers, directly impacting 2,200 smallholder farmers.

“We are creating a way for smallholder farmers

to access groups that purchase in bulk,” Hugh said. “We’re helping them consolidate and improve quality and we serve as a broker to help sell beans, maize and rice on behalf of smallholders to a large national NGO that provides school meals for students.”

With help from this funding, the SFA was also able to increase their microcredit loan program, providing loans and basic business training for smallholder entrepreneurs for farm improvement and to support secondary businesses they set up to supplement their farm incomes. Additionally, a number of university graduates in the SFA’s ‘Green Corps’ internship program were hired to support improvements in sustainable agriculture and agroforestry while expanding the SFA model.

$100,000 GRANT

FY 2024

IMPACT REPORT

PROTECTING OUR PLANET

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ISSUE:

IMPACT:

Based on Kiss the Ground’s research, the

With help from The VF Foundation, Kiss the

majority of U.S. soils are extremely degraded.

Ground has dedicated significant resources

Topsoil loss is occurring at a rate of 4.6

and skills to develop a comprehensive

tons per acre per year on agricultural land,

campaign strategy and build a powerful

negatively affecting the health of land and

farmer-led coalition. And, supported by The

water and contributing to biodiversity loss.

VF Foundation grant, Forum for the Future

The Farm Bill remains one of the country’s

has helped accelerate policy change and is

most successful and important conservation

working to enable regenerative practices in

programs to address this issue.

the United States.

Photo courtesy of Forum for the Future

KISS THE GROUND & FORUM FOR THE FUTURE

FY 2024

IMPACT REPORT

PROTECTING OUR PLANET

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KISS THE GROUND

Priya Kvam, Associate Director of Global Development, Forum for the Future

Agriculture Coalition | USA

Kiss the Ground’s (KTG) advocacy work stewards the Regenerate America Coalition made up of farmers, ranchers, non-profits, experts, companies, and citizens spanning the nation and the political spectrum. They are committed to rebuilding America’s soil by making regenerative agriculture a centerpiece of the next Farm Bill. With help from The VF Foundation, KTG has dedicated

“With collective action and focused advocacy, we can build capacity to begin to rewrite the rules that underpin the current agriculture system.”

significant resources and skills to develop a comprehensive campaign strategy and build a powerful farmer-led coalition. Thousands of farmers are represented from all 50 states, backed by a 16-member Farmer Leadership Council, 26-member Business Network and over 30,000 public supporters.

$50,000 GRANT

FORUM FOR THE FUTURE Supporting the Regenerative Movement | USA Supported by The VF Foundation grant, the Growing our Future program has accelerated policy change and is working to enable regenerative practices in the United States.

Forum for the Future has convened farmers, ranchers, farm workers, nonprofits, corporations and other stakeholders to advocate for regenerative policies on the Farm Bill through system-wide gatherings and fly-ins on Capitol Hill. They have curated strategic

Photo courtesy of Kiss the Ground

communications campaigns, built coalitions via webinars, advocated shared priorities and legislation and are fostering connectivity to ensure that the priorities of grassroots coalitions are represented.

$100,000 GRANT

FY 2024

IMPACT REPORT

PROTECTING OUR PLANET

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WATER.ORG ISSUE:

IMPACT:

In Kenya, 15 million people lack access

With help from The VF Foundation, Water.org

to safe water and 37 million lack access

expanded its work with members of Kenya’s

to a safe toilet. Growing water demand

Association of Microfinance Institutions

and water scarcity have turned into a

to train staff with knowledge and skills to

notable challenge. Drought, population

raise public awareness of their Water and

growth, urbanization, water pollution and

Sanitation Solutions (WSS) loans and develop

poor management of water resources

promotional materials to generate interest

have aggravated the water crisis,

in the program, resulting in 11,455 people

which affects economic activities, food

accessing affordable loans.

security, education and health.

SUCCESS STORY Enock is a 29-year-old entrepreneur in Mlolongo, Kenya. He runs a small café and noticed that community members made daily trips in search of water before and after their physically the water typically has high saline and is unsuitable for drinking or cooking. To meet the community demand for safe, accessible and affordable water, Enock secured a loan to start a water vending business, including two water tanks that hold 8,000 liters of water. He now serves 60 households a day with fresh water and provides water for a nearby school, earning more than enough to cover his monthly loan payment.

Photo courtesy of Water.org

taxing work as day laborers. The region’s rocky terrain often leads to water shortages, and

FY 2024

IMPACT REPORT

PROTECTING OUR PLANET

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WATER.ORG Expanding Water and Sanitation Access

Photo courtesy of Water.org

| Kenya

11,455 66.9

people reached with access to affordable loans

million liters of volumetric water benefit resulting from activities aimed at improving water stewardship

Water.org has brought safe water and sanitation to millions of people across the globe through affordable financing. In Kenya, they are working to address water and sanitation challenges and meet the targets outlined in the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.

The Kenyan Government estimates a need of at least $740 million annually for water and sanitation projects, but they can only contribute less than two-thirds of this cost, leaving a significant funding gap.

In order to bridge this gap, organizations like Water.org contribute financial resources, expertise and technical assistance to increase financing for water and sanitation. “One of the major barriers to safe water and sanitation in Kenya is affordable financing,” explained Benjamin Albert, Head of Corporate Partnerships for Water.org. “To address this issue, we created WaterCredit, which helps make small

loans possible for those who need access to affordable financing for household water and toilet solutions.”

With help from The VF Foundation, Water.org expanded its work with Kenya’s Association of Microfinance Institutions to train staff with knowledge and skills to raise public awareness of their affordable Water and Sanitation Solutions (WSS) loans and develop promotional materials to generate interest in the loans. Benjamin said, “By making household water and sanitation solutions accessible to individuals living in poverty, we are working toward the day when everyone, regardless of financial situation, has access to these essential resources.”

$100,000 GRANT

FY 2024

IMPACT REPORT

PROTECTING OUR PLANET

28 28

ISSUE:

IMPACT:

According to the Orange County Department

With support from The VF Foundation,

of Education, one of the main challenges to

Coastkeeper’s education program helped students

student success in STEM-related pathways

explore a variety of watershed and ecological

(Science, Technology, Engineering and

concepts and apply textbook concepts to real-

Mathematics) is the lack of integrated

world conservation experiences.

Photo courtesy of Orange County Coastkeeper

ORANGE COUNTY COASTKEEPER science and math curriculum in grades 7-12.

Additionally, a lack of access to the outdoors can limit meaningful engagement with nature.

“We provide hands-on environmental science experiences that inform and empower the future caretakers of our environment while emphasizing science taught in the classroom.”

Dyana Peña, Director of Programs, Orange County Coastkeeper

IMPACT REPORT

PROTECTING OUR PLANET

29 Photo courtesy of Orange County Coastkeeper

FY 2024

ORANGE COUNTY COASTKEEPER Santa Ana River Watershed Education Program | California Coastkeeper’s WHALES program (Watershed Heroes: Actions Linking Education to Stewardship) was created to increase participation and achievement in STEM fields for middle and high school students. It includes hands-on research, field experience and group projects and exposes students to environmental science projects that involve monitoring and restoring coastal habitats, testing hypotheses and analyzing data.

With support from The VF Foundation, the program helped students explore a variety of watershed and ecological concepts and apply textbook concepts to real-world conservation experiences. They learned to think critically about solutions to environmental issues and had the opportunity to interact with professionals in the field, introducing them to pathways into STEM-related careers.

“Because our audience lives primarily in highly urbanized areas, teachers often tell us their students have not had meaningful experiences in natural areas,” explained Dyana Peña, Director of Programs. “The WHALES program connects these students to their local environment, while kindling new excitement for science.”

Coastkeeper is also collaborating with Inland Empire Waterkeeper to provide a comprehensive water industry career education program for middle and high school students titled FLOWW (Future Leaders Of the Water Workforce). Its goal is to enhance students’ engagement in STEM and introduce them to careers in the water industry rooted in environmental stewardship.

$25,000 GRANT

85%

of students expressed increased knowledge of urban impacts on watersheds

75%

of students expressed interest in being stewards of their watershed and community

FY 2024

IMPACT REPORT

PROTECTING OUR PLANET

30 30

WORLD WILDLIFE FUND

ISSUE:

IMPACT:

The Büyük Menderes (BM) Basin plays

With support from The VF Foundation,

a pivotal role in Türkiye’s economic

this World Wildlife Fund program created

landscape. It generates 60% of the

a modern irrigation pilot project on

country’s textile exports, is the second-

cotton farms to advance conservation

largest cotton-producing region and

and sustainable use of water resources in

is home to important wetlands and

fragile habitats.

endangered species. However, the basin faces major environmental challenges in water quantity and quality driven by changing land use, industrial and agricultural practices and drought.

Photo courtesy of World Wildlife Fund

$8.2 M 17.9 Ha

A feasibility study showed investments of water and energy saving projects could yield annual savings of $8.2 million across textile companies reliant on the Basin

of Better Cotton farms are being monitored as part of developing a Regenerative Scorecard to evaluate and enhance regenerative practices

FY 2024

IMPACT REPORT

PROTECTING OUR PLANET

3131

“Using the Regenerative Scorecard has given us clear guidance on how to improve soil health. It provides a wide range of options, allowing us to sustain regenerative farming practices while adapting to environmental challenges like drought and climate risks.”

Cotton farmer in Büyük Menderes region

WORLD WILDLIFE FUND Water Stewardship in Büyük Menderes Basin | Türkiye

Photo courtesy of World Wildlife Fund

The Büyük Menderes (BM) Basin supplies water to 2.5 million people and provides water for agriculture, textile exports and cotton production, supporting the livelihoods of 30,000 individuals. However, textile production in this region faces significant threats due to the degradation of freshwater ecosystems in the basin. The cotton sector is also increasingly vulnerable because of drought and the widespread use of water-intensive flood irrigation practices.

“The textile and leather industries are the leading industrial sectors in the BM basin of Türkiye and the river delta has been recognized as an Important Bird and Biodiversity Area (IBA) for breeding and wintering water birds,” explained Daniel Brizuela, Manager of Private Sector Engagement for World Wildlife Fund (WWF).

“Through the implementation of water stewardship, this program aims to serve as a model of conservation and sustainable use of water resources that can eventually be scaled up to other basins in Türkiye.”

With support from The VF Foundation, this program created a modern irrigation pilot project on cotton farms. WWF also developed a Regenerative Scorecard for cotton farming to serve as a practical tool for farmers and agricultural engineers to evaluate and enhance regenerative practices across various cotton farms. And, through advocacy efforts, they have successfully implemented regenerative agriculture practices via Better Cotton farms, contributing to more sustainable cotton production.

$104,000 GRANT

FY 2024

IMPACT REPORT

PROTECTING OUR PLANET

32 32

SOIL HEALTH INSTITUTE ISSUE:

IMPACT:

Despite the well-established benefits of

Thanks to funding from The VF Foundation,

regenerative agriculture, less than 10% of

the U.S. Regenerative Cotton Fund (USRCF)

U.S. cotton cropland is managed using the

is engaging more growers in this movement,

soil health practice of cover cropping. In

empowering and educating them through

U.S. cotton production, adoption of this

soil health training via in-person workshops

practice is hindered by lack of economic

and field days, farmer training events,

information, soil health training programs,

speaking engagements and webinars.

knowledge of the most effective soil health measurements and a process to establish benchmarks so farmers know what level of soil health and carbon sequestration can be

Photo courtesy of Soil Health Institute

achieved on their farm.

10.5M

acres across the cotton belt established as soil health & carbon benchmarks

FY 2024

IMPACT REPORT

PROTECTING OUR PLANET

SOIL HEALTH INSTITUTE U.S. Regenerative Cotton Fund | USA As an initiative of the Soil Health Institute (SHI), the U.S. Regenerative Cotton Fund’s (USRCF) goal is to draw down 1 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent from the atmosphere by 2026 through increased adoption of regenerative soil health practices by cotton farmers.

“Improving soil health simultaneously benefits farmers and the environment,” explained Byron Rath, Chief Impact Officer for the Soil Health Institute. “Farmers benefit from these practices through increased drought and flood resilience, more efficient use of nutrients and decreased erosion risk. They also experience lower input costs and less fuel consumption and potentially greater yield stability.“ Those same soil health practices are equally good for the environment. They help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase

carbon sequestration. They also improve water quality, decrease sedimentation of reservoirs, stabilize local hydrology and provide all the benefits of pollinator habitats.

Thanks to funding from The VF Foundation, the USRCF is engaging more growers in this movement, empowering and educating them through soil health training via inperson workshops and field days, farmer training events, speaking engagements and webinars. They are also establishing soil health economics and are standardizing measurements and goal setting through their Soil Health Benchmarks.

$250,000 GRANT

33 33

FY 2024

IMPACT REPORT

PROTECTING OUR PLANET

34 34

Photo courtesy of WBCSD

WORLD BUSINESS COUNCIL FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT ISSUE:

IMPACT:

Less than half of used clothes are collected

With support from The VF Foundation, the World

for reuse or recycling when they are no

Business Council for Sustainable Development

longer needed. Only 1% are recycled into

(WBCSD) worked to provide sector-specific guidance

new clothes, and despite efforts to adopt

and data to the fashion industry with the aim of

circular business models by many companies

safeguarding biodiversity, reducing climate risks

globally, circularity at scale remains a

and supporting sustainable growth of supply chains

challenge in the fashion sector.

through greater adoption of the WBCSD’s Circular Transition Indicators (CTI).

“By increasing use of secondary and sustainably produced fibers, and fundamentally transforming the way clothes are designed, sold and disposed of, businesses can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, leakage and pollution and their use of freshwater and land.”

Irene Martinetti, Manager of Circular Economy, WBCSD

FY 2024

500+

IMPACT REPORT

practitioners participated in the CTI Fashion Initiative’s launch, webinars and workshops

PROTECTING OUR PLANET

35

WORLD BUSINESS COUNCIL FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT Circular Transition Indicators Fashion Initiative

Photo courtesy of WBCSD

| Global The CTI Fashion Initiative was kickstarted thanks to collaborative leadership from VF Corporation, The VF Foundation, Deloitte and World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD). Leveraging grant funding, they built an ecosystem of companies and circularity-focused organizations from the fashion and textile sector. Together, they developed an aligned understanding of what it means to adopt circularity principles and how companies can contribute to circularity across the value chain based on WBCSD’s Circular Transition Indicators (CTI).

$150,000 GRANT

CTIs were developed in collaboration with over 30 companies and these indicators help businesses from different industries worldwide measure and improve their circularity performance. It is already the most used framework to measure circularity globally and with funds from The VF Foundation, the WBSCD worked to provide sector-specific guidance and data to the fashion industry.

“The linear economy model in fashion is unsustainable,” explained Irene Martinetti, Manager of Circular Economy for WBCSD.

“From a business perspective, it creates legal, market, business and operational risks.

Additionally, more stringent government regulations on resource use are reshaping business models and financing. Companies that don’t shift to circular strategies and business models, will be left behind.” This standardized approach to measuring circularity helps align incentives and stimulate investments towards more circular and sustainable operations while preparing companies to meet in-scope sustainability regulatory requirements.

FY 2024

IMPACT REPORT

POWERING POTENTIAL

36

POWERING POTENTIAL Unlocking opportunity through education and economic empowerment. We are helping foster community economic resilience and investing in education resources and tools for everyone to thrive. We’re driving positive change for the future of the apparel and outdoor recreation industries, and helping to grow a talent pipeline that will fuel the next generation of creatives and outside of the box thinkers.

Photo courtesy of Shimmy

FY 2024

IMPACT REPORT

POWERING POTENTIAL

3737

Photo courtesy of Outdoor Recreation Roundtable

OUTDOOR RECREATION ROUNDTABLE ISSUE:

IMPACT:

As the $1.2 trillion outdoor recreation economy gains

Funding from The VF Foundation helped Outdoor Recreation

national prominence, the growth of the outdoor

Roundtable (ORR) implement new harmonized efforts across

recreation movement requires alignment between

their programs including Workforce and Rural Development

leading organizations at the federal, state, and local levels

and State Recreation Offices, including the Confluence of

to ensure that outdoor recreation enjoys sustained and

States. Funding supported ORR’s work to advance strategies

coordinated investment in infrastructure and workforce

to build a more resilient outdoor recreation economy across

development, and that outdoor communities, especially

the U.S. and build coalitions to tackle new opportunities in

in Rural America, gain economic diversification and

access, public health, economic development, workforce

resilience.

development and stewardship.

“Together with The VF Foundation, we are not only enhancing our communities but also aligning with our shared vision of creating transformative experiences in the outdoor spaces we cherish.”

Katherine Andrews, Chair, Confluence of States, and Director, Arkansas Office of Outdoor Recreation

FY 2024

IMPACT REPORT

POWERING POTENTIAL

38 38

OUTDOOR RECREATION ROUNDTABLE Workforce and Rural Development

The Confluence of States welcomes new state offices of outdoor recreation from Minnesota and North Dakota at the 2024 Outdoor Media Summit.

| USA Thanks to past support from The VF Foundation, Outdoor Recreation Roundtable (ORR) is now seen as a key stakeholder of rural economic development, workforce coordination, and state outdoor recreation leadership. Continued support from The VF Foundation has helped ORR advance strategies to build a more welcoming and resilient outdoor workforce across the U.S. including targeted education and outreach to youth-serving organizations, colleges and universities.

“Outdoor career advancement is a multifaceted challenge in trust-building, corporate

buy-in and curricular development, plus providing basic life supports like affordable housing in recreation communities,” explained Chris Perkins, Vice President of Programs for ORR. ”We can’t solve these issues overnight, but our new Roadmap for a 21st Century Outdoor Workforce develops programming that we know will start to make headway.”

ORR also assisted in the creation of five new State Offices of Outdoor Recreation.

“We worked closely with the Confluence of States to expand its impact nationwide including public events like the National

38 Outdoor Recreation Executive Forum which included CEOs, governors, members of Congress, and agency leaders.” With support from The VF Foundation, the Confluence of States also adopted a historic fifth pillar, called ‘Opportunity and Experience’ to identify the need for states to support programs that lift barriers to accessing the outdoors.

$50,000 GRANT

5 214

New State Offices of Outdoor Recreation created in Connecticut, Minnesota, North Dakota, Pennsylvania and Tennessee

Registrants attended Outdoor Workforce Expert Series highlighting strategies for emergent entrepreneurs in the outdoor workforce

FY 2024

IMPACT REPORT

POWERING POTENTIAL

39 39

RISE (REIMAGINING INDUSTRY TO SUPPORT EQUALITY) ISSUE:

IMPACT:

Women workers in Guatemala often face

The RISE (Reimagining Industry to Support

limited access to formal financial services,

Equality) initiative scales impact and accelerates

career advancement and higher-paying job

empowerment for workers in global garment supply

opportunities. They also risk sexual harassment

chains. With funding from The VF Foundation,

and gender-based violence, with more than 70%

RISE is working to tackle barriers in Guatemala’s

of women reporting having experienced violent

workplaces, conduct needs assessments and

situations in their workplaces.

understand opportunities for positive change in the garment industry.

Photo courtesy of ©RISE

~4,000

workers reached in four factories through the RISE Respect program

IMPACT REPORT

POWERING POTENTIAL

40

RISE (REIMAGINING INDUSTRY TO SUPPORT EQUALITY) RISE Respect | Guatemala Despite the textile industry playing a pivotal role in Guatemala’s economy and providing employment for a substantial portion of the population, the garment sector can be a challenging industry for women. RISE is working to create greater awareness and promote safe and respectful working environments for women in this area.

RISE is a collaborative platform that works with member companies to enroll garment factories into one of the RISE programs which are then developed and delivered in partnership with local organizations.

Together, they deepen impact and build scale in a number of ways, including adopting an evolved approach for brands and suppliers to address gender-based violence and women’s advancement and leadership.

With funding from The VF Foundation, RISE is delivering “RISE Respect” programming in factories in Guatemala, piloting a comprehensive approach to preventing and remediating Gender Based Violence and Harassment (GBVH) in the garment sector.

“Violence against women is a serious issue in Guatemala and situational factors, specific to the garment sector, increase risks of harassment and violence in the world of work and prevent reporting and responding,” says Christine Svarer, Executive Director of RISE. “Working with our local partners and factories, we have an opportunity to create workplaces that are based on respect, safety and dignity.”

In partnership with CARE Guatemala, RISE conducted a needs assessment to understand

barriers to prevention, workplace violence and existing policies and factory approaches. The VF Foundation funding has also helped create mapping of local organizations that support women including psychological support, legal support and shelter access in Guatemala to educate workers on available wraparound services to support their health and wellbeing and personal agency.

$250,000 GRANT

Photo courtesy of ©RISE

FY 2024

FY 2024

IMPACT REPORT

POWERING POTENTIAL

4141

CIVIC CENTER CONSERVANCY

Sara Leitch, Director of External Affairs, Civic Center Conservancy

IMPACT:

Civic Center is a National Historic

With support from The VF Foundation, the

Landmark in Denver recognized for its

Conservancy’s WORKS program engages the

beautiful architecture and place for

unhoused population in park upkeep through

the community to gather. Based on

workforce development, aiding their transition

Civic Center Conservancy’s research, it

out of homelessness and providing a sense of

had also been perceived by residents

park ownership.

as unwelcoming during the COVID-19 pandemic due to chronic homelessness and public safety concerns.

Photo courtesy of The VF Foundation

“WORKS and the Conservancy’s SPARKLES volunteer program, collectively added over 3,300 hours of supplemental maintenance to Civic Center Park, substantially lessening the burden on the City & County of Denver as it works to meet the needs of its outdoor spaces.”

ISSUE:

FY 2024

IMPACT REPORT

POWERING POTENTIAL

42 42

CIVIC CENTER CONSERVANCY WORKS Workforce Development Program | Denver, Colorado

“We are able to give those who are often overlooked a chance to tell their own stories here. It has garnered a lot of interest in examining ways to solve tough workforce and maintenance issues and has shown how the Conservancy’s model can be replicated elsewhere.”

Sara Leitch, Director of External Affairs

Photo courtesy of Civic Center Conservancy

After a survey showed that 40% of Denver residents felt Civic Center was where they were least safe in downtown, the park closed to the public and reopened a year later with a plan for ways to grow solutions and build infrastructure. This included their “WORKS” program which identifies park needs and then finds communities and partners to fill the gap.

“The program is now entering its fourth year and grant funding has helped us polish our framework so that we can expand it to other needs in the park,” explained Sara Leitch, Director of External Affairs. “We’ve been able to have larger community events and reach additional communities including a WORKS program for youth.”

$30,000 GRANT

With support from the VF Foundation, The WORKS program has helped the Conservancy accomplish three important goals: increasing economic mobility, giving opportunity to the chronically unhoused, and increasing wellness for community members by helping them unlock the benefits of the outdoors.

“We’ve learned that when we prioritize people, the park benefits,” Sara said. “By intentionally considering who gets an opportunity to elevate a community space, we address park needs, create ownership among a new community, and build goodwill across the larger Denver community for a group that has experienced stigma. We’ve also learned that sometimes a small program run by a small organization can have a big impact.”

FY 2024

IMPACT REPORT

POWERING POTENTIAL

43 43

THE RESILIENCE FUND IMPACT:

Health, safety and agency are essential

The Resilience Fund for Women in Global

to one’s economic resilience. However,

Value Chains, which is managed by the United

gender-based violence and lack of

Nations Foundation’s Universal Access Project,

access to health services have limited

brings together companies, foundations and

women and girls in global value chains

NGO leaders to invest in women’s health,

from participating fully in society. This is

safety and economic resilience. The Fund is

especially a challenge in the Global South.

flipping the script on traditional, top-down philanthropy and is a powerful model of trust-

.

based giving, pooled corporate funding and cross-sectoral learning and engagement that places trust and resources into the hands of women-led organizations to determine the best solutions for their own communities.

Photo courtesy of United Nations Foundation

ISSUE:

FY 2024

IMPACT REPORT

POWERING POTENTIAL

44 44

THE RESILIENCE FUND United Nations Foundation’s Universal Access Project | Bangladesh, Cambodia, India, & Vietnam

Photo courtesy of United Nations Foundation

$3.2M

in capacity building grants and organizational support disbursed to date

With its unique model, The Resilience Fund for Women in Global Value Chains is becoming recognized as one of the most innovative initiatives in philanthropic and private sectors. The Fund transforms corporate philanthropy, explores new approaches that shift power in grantmaking, reimagines traditional ways of measuring impact and funnels resources to those with lived experience who are advancing local solutions in their communities.

For three years, the Fund directed resources to organizations in Bangladesh, Cambodia, India and Vietnam. Now, thanks in part to funding from The VF Foundation, it has also focused on building its model and systems, expanding its influence and documenting its impact and granteepartner learnings.

“The Resilience Fund supports granteepartners, strengthens their work and creates environments for women’s leadership and empowerment,” explained Dilly Severin, Executive Director of The Universal

Access Project. “The long-term impact is transforming communities, strengthening movements, empowering women with opportunities to have safe and healthy lives and ensuring their rights are upheld, protected and respected.”

With support from The VF Foundation, the Fund also invested in major improvements in its data visualization and supply chain mapping, added new Southeast Asia grantee-partners and facilitated the first inperson convening of South Asia grantees and partners in Nepal for learning, impact sharing and needs assessment.

$250,000 GRANT

FY 2024

IMPACT REPORT

POWERING POTENTIAL

45 45

ISSUE:

IMPACT:

Entrepreneurship and cultivating small

The Greensboro Chamber of Commerce has

business development play a vital role in the

collaborated with more than 100 business

growth of economies through the creation

and civic leaders in the greater Greensboro

of new jobs and in promoting economic

community to develop an innovative,

mobility. However, barriers often exist for

strategic action plan called GROW. With

startups and small enterprises such as lack

support from The VF Foundation, GROW

of access to knowledge, resources and

is rebuilding a thriving local economy

capital to turn their dreams into reality.

by creating quality jobs, retaining and expanding existing industry, fostering entrepreneurial business development and expanding the workforce pipeline.

Photo courtesy of Greensboro Chamber of Commerce

GREENSBORO CHAMBER FOUNDATION

FY 2024

IMPACT REPORT

POWERING POTENTIAL

46

Photo courtesy of Greensboro Chamber of Commerce

GREENSBORO CHAMBER FOUNDATION GROW Initiative | Greensboro, North Carolina

58 79

site visits hosted which achieved network building and capacity development

new entrepreneurial companies started and helped to grow through Launch Greensboro

GROW is a multi-year initiative that works to enhance the economic vitality of the greater Greensboro area. “In one year of the GROW initiative we helped to add over 4,500 jobs and $11B in capital investment while helping 79 new companies get started or expand, generating $3.3M in new small business revenues,” explained Tracy Myers, Executive Vice President, Member & Investor Engagement.

Funding from The VF Foundation also helped the Greensboro Chamber Foundation create a comprehensive Workforce Development Plan and benchmarking tools. They tapped into the collective insights of over 600 local businesses and organizations regarding talent and workforce needs. And, their

“Launch Greensboro” programs tripled the number of entrepreneurs taking advantage of free resources.

The Greensboro Chamber Foundation works closely with the City of Greensboro and East Greensboro NOW to market East Greensboro to prospective employers and help to attract new companies to the area. They are dedicated to growing the talent and workforce pipeline through advocacy and legislative work and their Start & Grow Our Own program supports entrepreneurial programs.

$100,000 GRANT

IMPACT REPORT

POWERING POTENTIAL

4747

Photo courtesy of WaterAid

FY 2024

ISSUE:

IMPACT:

Despite a growing tourism industry,

WaterAid works to lift barriers to WASH

Cambodia remains one of the poorest

services around the world in communities

nations in Southeast Asia. Based on

that lack access to clean water. Building off

WaterAid’s research, one in five people

of a multi-year partnership in Cambodia with

don’t have access to safe drinking water,

VF and The VF Foundation, current funding

and one in five don’t have access to a

is helping them increase access to critical

toilet. Even when water, sanitation and

WASH services including reaching over 11,545

hygiene (WASH) services are available,

beneficiaries in the Kandal province, where

women, girls and people living with a

people live in flood-prone areas.

disability often face greater obstacles in accessing services to fit their needs.

“Cambodian women still face limitations in the WASH sector and in the workplace with a lack of professional development opportunities and promotion capacity. WASH programming ensures their participation and leadership in design, implementation and decision-making.”

Nefertiti Saleh, Director of Partnerships, WaterAid America

Photo Courtesy of Insert Name or Title Here

WATERAID

IMPACT REPORT

POWERING POTENTIAL

Photo courtesy of WaterAid

FY 2024

48

WATERAID Sustainable Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) | Cambodia Access to water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) is essential for reducing poverty and critical for preventing the spread of deadly diseases. In Cambodia, only 44% of people have basic water service. Many Cambodians face challenges connecting their homes to piped access for safe water, and water quality is also a barrier due to water operators’ limited capacities. While there have been improvements in sanitation in recent years, efforts from district governments, the World Health Organization and UN agencies have not been enough.

“WaterAid uses a system-wide approach to strengthen the WASH sector by addressing all the dimensions which make sustainable WASH possible,” explained Nefertiti Saleh,

Director of Partnerships for WaterAid America. “We ensure that education and good practices support other initiatives while also working in collaboration with key stakeholders to maximize impact.”

With support from The VF Foundation, more than 7,500 participants joined in meetings, workshops, and capacity-building activities on WASH practices and piped water benefits.

WaterAid trained and empowered over 600 participants to understand their rights to hold service providers accountable. And, they facilitated meetings between the community, authorities and private water operators to discuss community needs and develop improvement plans for WASH service delivery.

1,676 $125,000 GRANT

households (7,207 people) gained access to piped water connections

FY 2024

IMPACT REPORT

HUMANITARIAN RELIEF

49

Bringing hope, dignity and opportunity to those in need. We unite VF’s people and family of brands to support humanitarian relief and recovery efforts around the world. This includes The VF Foundation’s monetary donations and matching grants, VF’s product donations to support organizations with expertise in emergency response and rebuilding efforts, and VF employee donations and volunteerism.

Photo courtesy of Hawai‘i Community Foundation

HUMANITARIAN RELIEF

FY 2024

IMPACT REPORT

HUMANITARIAN RELIEF

50

INTERNATIONAL COMMITTEE OF THE RED CROSS

Photo courtesy of International Committee of the Red Cross

Middle East Humanitarian Crisis

The Red Cross and global affiliates respond to disasters and other crises around the world by mobilizing cash support, pre-positioning relief supplies, deploying disaster response experts and implementing recovery and preparedness programs.

Collective donations enabled the vital work of the global Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement in response to the devastation that began with the attacks on October 7, 2023. Aid was provided to people affected by the humanitarian crisis in the Middle East.

The VF Foundation ran a match campaign for employees, friends and family, and donated $160,000 to the ICRC, a neutral humanitarian organization that helps both Palestinians and Israelis impacted by the conflict. Funding went towards medical supplies, ensuring access to food and clean water, and facilitation of contact between the missing and detained and their families.

FY 2024

IMPACT REPORT

On August 8, 2023, wildfires ignited and spread quickly on Maui, fueled by dry winds from Hurricane Dora passing south of the state, resulting in one of the largest natural disasters in state history.

HUMANITARIAN RELIEF

HAWAI’I COMMUNITY FOUNDATION Maui Wildfires

Photo courtesy of Hawai‘i Community Foundation

Vans® has a long-standing relationship with the Hawaiian community through surfing, action sports customers and retail stores. In response to the fires, Vans, other VF brands and The VF Foundation responded quickly with apparel and footwear donations and a collective monetary contribution to the Hawai’i Community Foundation’s Maui Strong Fund. Nearly 100 VF employees, friends and family contributed to the Foundation’s match campaign, raising a total of nearly $40,000.

The impact of the Fund has been realized through the efforts of grantees on the ground, working tirelessly to support a wide array of community needs through countless acts of aloha.

51

FY 2024

IMPACT REPORT

VOLUNTEERISM

52

VOLUNTEERISM Serving community as agents of social change.

From donating clothing and footwear to youth and families in need, to helping clean up and preserve our outdoor playgrounds, volunteerism energizes VF’s employees and brands around the world as we work together to improve communities.

VF employees contributed over 256,00 volunteer hours from FY 2019 through FY 2024.

The following stories cover volunteer activities in FY 2024 - FY 2025.

Photo courtesy of VF Corporation

FY 2024

IMPACT REPORT

VOLUNTEERISM

53

COSTA MESA, CALIFORNIA

Photo courtesy of The North Face

AMERICAS

Photo courtesy of Vans

1

DENVER, COLORADO

Vans® employees participated in a beach cleanup event during Earth Month with Orange County Coastkeeper where they removed 82 Pounds of trash from Bolsa Chica State Beach, 148 pounds of trash from Calafia State Beach and prevented 141 pounds of trash from entering the ocean at Newport Beach.

Volunteer Impact

2

3

2 1

4

Photo courtesy of Greensboro Parks & Recreation

4

Photo courtesy of Timberland

3

Employees from The North Face® volunteered as skiers in the Annual Wells Fargo Ski Cup at Winter Park Resort to raise funds for the National Sports Center for the Disabled (NSCD). This event helps ensure those living with disabilities are able to recreate in the Great Outdoors. The brand also donated their iconic Base Camp duffel bags to NSCD staff and athletes.

STRATHAM, NEW HAMPSHIRE Timberland® is committed to social responsibility and strengthening communities. Their signature Serv-a-Palooza, an annual event that celebrates community service and volunteerism, included support for Cross Roads House, Chase Home for Children, and Dress a Girl Around the World – all right in or near headquarters in Stratham, NH.

GREENSBORO, NORTH CAROLINA VF employees joined Greensboro Parks Foundation for the Keeley Park Adaptive Mountain Bike Trail Grand Opening - the city’s first adaptive mountain bike trail designed to allow people of all abilities to access the physical, mental, and emotional benefits of mountain biking. Construction of the 2+ miles of trail was funded in part by The VF Foundation and is a new hub for inclusive recreation.

FY 2024

IMPACT REPORT

54

1

Volunteer Impact

Photo courtesy of VF Corporation

1 2

The North Face® and VF employees participate annually in Summit Foundation’s Cleanup Tour, a series of events focused on preserving the Alpine landscape by organizing waste collection activities in mountain resorts across Switzerland and Italy. This work raises awareness about littering and environmental issues.

VARESE, ITALY

LEICESTER, ENGLAND

3

3

STABIO, SWITZERLAND

Photo courtesy of Timberland

2

Photo courtesy of Summit Foundation

EUROPE

VOLUNTEERISM

Timberland® and VF colleagues gathered for a forest cleanup event in collaboration with Amici di Bregazzana. Equipped with gloves, trash bags, and a shared passion for preserving nature, the volunteers worked to ensure the forest remains a beautiful haven for both wildlife and visitors.

VF employees from the Bardon Distribution Center volunteered at the RSPCA Animal Shelter to help setup stalls, marquees, a dog agility course and demonstration stations for major events and festivals. VF volunteers also organize seasonal donations of food, toys, and necessities to the shelter.

FY 2024

IMPACT REPORT

55

CAMBODIA

Photo courtesy of VF Corporation

Volunteer Impact

MAINLAND CHINA

Photo courtesy of VF Corporation

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Photo courtesy of VF Corporation

ASIA PACIFIC

VOLUNTEERISM

SINGAPORE

Vans® donated 2,700 pairs of shoes to four schools in Qinghai, China, marking the eighth year of its Purpose Program. The program aims not only to provide material support but also to offer opportunities for self-expression for young students from impoverished areas. Since 2017, the program has journeyed through five provinces, donating a total of 15,000 pairs of shoes.

Alongside the donation, Vans organized skateboarding and art workshops to empower students and inspire creativity, impacting over 20,000 teachers and students.

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VF employees partnered with WaterAid to expand clean water access, reliable sanitation, and basic hygiene practices at Wat Kraing School. Over 300 students benefited through hygiene quizzes and education classes to equip youth with critical knowledge and tools to stay healthy and safe from infectious diseases.

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VF employees spent a day at Chen Su Lan Children’s Home bringing warmth and color to the children’s space by painting a vibrant mural designed by a local artist, gardening and refreshing outdoor furniture.

FY 2024

IMPACT REPORT

VISION & MISSION

56 56

THE VF FOUNDATION TEAM BOARD OF DIRECTORS

GLOBAL GRANTS REVIEW COMMITTEE

STAFF

BRACKEN DARRELL

DENISE ANDERSON

JEANNIE RENNÉ-MALONE

GLORIA SCHOCH

President & CEO VF Corporation | Foundation Chair

Head of Marketing, Americas The North Face®

Vice President, Global Sustainability VF Corporation

Senior Director, Global Impact, VF Corporation & Executive Director, VF Foundation

BRENT HYDER

ALICIA CHIN

SARA STEFANSKI

JENNIFER MARGOLES

Executive Vice President, Chief People Officer & President AMER VF Corporation | Foundation Vice Chair

Director, Sustainability & Social Impact Altra®, icebreaker®, Smartwool®

Vice President, Global Responsible Sourcing VF Corporation

Program Manager, Global Impact, VF Corporation & VF Foundation

COLIN WHEELER

DION GOODMAN

JULIE SUTTON

Vice President, Corporate Affairs & Communications VF Corporation | Foundation President

Senior Director, Global IDEA VF Corporation

Senior Director, Government Affairs VF Corporation

JENN SIM

JANINE PIETERSE

Executive Vice President, Chief Legal Officer & Corporate Secretary VF Corporation | Foundation Secretary

Vice President, Enterprise Planning VF Corporation

DOUG HASSMAN Vice President, Global Tax & Treasury VF Corporation | Foundation Treasurer

Photo courtesy of Fashion Scholarship Fund

FY 2024

IMPACT REPORT

57

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