With company-sponsored Volunteer Time Off, Life’s Abundance staff in Jupiter, FL contribute to Hope on Wheels.

Did you know that Life’s Abundance is more than just a brand name on a label? That’s right - we’re a bunch of passionate folks who've been formulating, packaging, and paving our way to a healthier world for humans and pets for 25 years! That's a lot of birthdays, treats for your furry friends, and premium health products - delivered right to your door.

But this anniversary celebration isn’t about the balloons and confetti. What really gets us out of bed in the morning is the culture we’ve cultivated here. It's the secret sauce in our recipe for making a positive impact.

We’re excited to share the inside scoop on what makes our world go ‘round. Find out what makes Life’s Abundance's award-winning culture, and join us on our journey to a brighter future.

The 3 Pillars of Life’s Abundance Culture

In our ever-evolving corporate landscape, a rich company culture is essential. At Life's Abundance, we've crafted a culture where talent thrives.

We’re driven by:

1. Empathy. Central to our ethos, we prioritize open communication and diversity, fostering a space where everyone feels valued and included.
2. Evergreen. We champion growth and longevity. Embracing continuous learning and a long-term vision, we aspire to create a lasting, sustainable impact.
3. Energy. Our workplace buzzes with positivity and collaboration. Celebrating achievements and nurturing leadership, we inspire our team to innovate with enthusiasm.

Built on these guiding principles, Life’s Abundance ensures every individual has an opportunity to shine, allowing us to create sustainable and measurable success.

Beyond our business and products, we also have a heartfelt commitment to our community, and our Volunteer Time Off (VTO) initiative further embodies this. Through VTO, we empower our employees to contribute to their local community. This not only amplifies a sense of purpose but also strengthens our shared identity.

Life’s Abundance & Employee Ownership

Since 2012, Life’s Abundance has flourished as a 100% employee-owned company with the core purpose of empowering both people and pets to lead healthier, happier lives. At the heart of this empowerment is the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), a unique benefit that allows every team member, from warehouse staff to executives, to own a piece of the company they help grow.

The decision to adopt an ESOP structure sprouted during a time when company leaders were nearing retirement, and the company needed to reinforce its ability to last for years to come. The leadership team saw ESOP as a means to not only safeguard the company's purpose and values but also to reinforce its people-first culture.

For consumers, this ownership model translates to an unmatched customer service experience. When you communicate with Life’s Abundance, you're interacting with employees and engaging with passionate owners dedicated to serving you.

Our employees, on the other hand, reap a myriad of benefits:

• Financially, ESOP acts as a retirement plan.
• Culturally, employee ownership nurtures a tight-knit community.
• Professionally, it fosters creativity and drive, enhancing individual and collective performance.

Such a structure, where employees are vested owners, results in a win-win for the company and its staff - plus, it enriches customer interactions! Through this shared purpose and passion, Life’s Abundance aims to make a significant impact, underlining the principle that employee ownership is both fun and transformative.

Furry Friends: Our Partner in Saving Animal Lives

When you shop at Life’s Abundance, you're not just buying a product; you're making a heartfelt impact. Every purchase supports The Dr. Jane Foundation, championing the welfare of vulnerable animals in the U.S. One of our proudest collaborations is with Furry Friends in Jupiter, Florida. They're not just a non-profit - they're a lifeline for countless animals.

Furry Friends' mission includes:

• Rescue
• Medical care
• Rehabilitation
• Rehoming

What's particularly exciting is our support for their unique transport program, called Hope On Wheels. This special service boasts one of Florida's only fully-equipped rescue buses, capable of moving over 100 animals in a single journey. The bus plays a pivotal role, especially during crises.

For instance, when Hurricane Ian struck in September 2022, Furry Friends' bus was on the frontlines.

• They transported 35 animals to Chicago, alleviating local shelters post-hurricane.
• They moved over 100 animals from Florida’s storm-hit southwest coast to safe shelters nationwide.
• An additional 50 pets were relocated from storm zones to secure shelters across the south and midwest.

In under a year, thanks to Hope On Wheels, over 350 animals found safety, many of them Hurricane Ian survivors. With over 1,000 animals benefitting already since the program began, Furry Friends is actively expanding their outreach, and Life’s Abundance is right beside them in this mission.

Through TREES, Life’s Abundance actively aids and their families in Senegal by combining environmental protection with skill-building.

Why We Plant Trees in Africa

Trees for the Future (TREES) is a remarkable non-profit, championing sustainable ecosystems through agroforestry. Agroforestry is the practice of combining trees with food crops on the same land so it benefits both the environment and farmers. Our shared vision is simple: a sustainable planet.

Since our partnership, we have planted over 1 million trees. This approach seamlessly melds tree planting with agricultural training, revitalizing lands, bolstering local nutrition, and fostering sustainable income. To put it simply: through TREES, we’re actively aiding farmers and their families in Senegal by intertwining environmental protection with skill-building.

The benefits of agroforestry are:

• Environmental: Trees combat climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide. Additionally, they rejuvenate degraded lands, prevent soil erosion, and enhance water quality.
• Social: Beyond eco-benefits, the agroforestry model has profound social ramifications. It aids in poverty alleviation, farmer empowerment (over 30% of whom are women), food security, and community strengthening.
• Economic: Beyond their ecological role, trees are economic assets. They provide resources like timber and fruits, generate employment, and uplift the financial health of communities.

Supporting Life's Abundance means joining this effort. Every skin care purchase plants a tree, symbolizing our commitment to biodiversity and our planet's future. So, as you embrace eco-conscious choices, remember you're not just investing in premium products, but a greener tomorrow. Let's co-create a sustainable future!

Brighter Days Ahead: Our Eco-Future

As the sun graces us with its radiant beams, we're so happy to channel its power using solar panels at our headquarters in Jupiter, FL. Our love for the environment isn't just about harnessing solar energy, though.

We’re on a journey to become carbon negative, which means extracting more carbon dioxide than we release. It's an ambitious venture, but with our strategic plans, we're set to reach this goal in just two short years by:

• Digitizing our operations to curb paper use.
• Adopting intelligent shipping methods.
• Saying goodbye to plastic bubble wrap.
• Minimizing energy and water use across our facilities.

We're also making strides in offsetting our carbon footprint, from our headquarters to our warehouse locations. But our vision stretches further. Soon, we'll be countering the carbon output of every employee's daily commute, all our shipments, and even our annual convention!

• Our projects have offset an astonishing 21 million pounds of CO2. (That’s equivalent to 4 million 4th of July barbecue parties, assuming each party uses a 15-serving propane grill.)
• Our solar panels save approximately 100,000 pounds of CO2 annually. This effort ensures that our entire building operates on solar power, even for tasks such as warehousing.

This CO2 sequestration number is expanding yearly due to our tree-planting initiatives.

Award-Winning Culture & Values

Back in 2019, Life’s Abundance was honored with the prestigious Forbes Small Giants award. Reflecting on that recognition, even in 2023, brings immense pride. The accolade, given to select privately-held companies, celebrates businesses that value excellence and commitment to greatness over expansion.

Several key factors contributed to this distinction:

• Stellar Customer Service: Life’s Abundance has consistently prioritized its customers, delivering exceptional service and ensuring their needs are met with the highest quality products.
• Product Excellence: Life’s Abundance has an unblemished record since its inception, and stringent safety protocols and quick-notification practices are in place. This speaks volumes about our dedication to product safety and quality assurance.
• Unique Business Model: This allows us to control distribution, producing in smaller batches for optimal condition and quality, and steering clear of large retailers and mega e-commerce platforms. Our approach also deviates from traditional network marketing structures. We have no quotas, ensuring genuine customer loyalty.
• Community Impact: Our sense of purpose extends beyond business metrics. We're committed to meaningful employment, community engagement, and charitable endeavors.

Though the award was in 2019, the sentiment remains relevant today: being a Small Giant underscores our mission of impactful and responsible business. As we progress, we continue to cherish and uphold the values that made us a Forbes Small Giant, ensuring Life’s Abundance remains synonymous with quality, trust, and community.

The Next Chapter

As we pass this milestone and look toward our continued journey, it's clear that Life’s Abundance is more than just a company; it's a movement propelled by passion, purpose, and unparalleled commitment. The past 25 years have been monumental, but the future is even brighter.

Our foundation, built on empathy, sustainability, and collaboration, remains strong, and as we continue to embrace new horizons, we invite you, our cherished community, to join us. Whether it's by supporting our eco-initiatives, celebrating our accolades, or simply choosing to be a part of the Life’s Abundance family, your role is invaluable.

Together, let's continue to champion a world where both people and pets thrive, where communities flourish, and where our planet is nurtured for generations to come. Thank you for being a part of our story, and here's to the countless chapters yet to be written!

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Saving Pets, One Bus Ride at a Time

 

Life’s Abundance staff in Jupiter, Fl contribute to Hope on Wheels with volunteering their time.

Do you ever imagine swooping in to save the day for animals in need? You’re fighting the bad guys, like disease and hunger, and rescuing innocent animals from life-threatening situations. Welcome to the heroic world of animal rescue, where everyday superheroes put on their capes and advocate for the precious lives of pets!

The best part? You’re part of the squad. That’s because financial support for these missions come from a mix of Life’s Abundance profits, employee-owner payroll contributions, and customers like you who donate with their orders. Superhero status, achieved!

So buckle up, animal lovers, and put on your superhero cape. You’re about to learn how we save pets’ lives, one bus ride at a time by transporting animals to shelters with more room to spare. Also learn how you can actively participate in this noble mission with Furry Friends Animal Rescue in Jupiter, Florida.

Making Room for More Love: Hope on Wheels

Did you know more than 6 million animals enter animal shelters across the US every year? [1] Unfortunately, finding enough room for these furry friends has been a battle against the odds. Overcrowded shelters and an influx of animals have made the mission of saving pets’ lives a tough challenge.

Fortunately, there are extraordinary programs out there performing miracles and taking care of animals. In fact, there are around 14,000 shelters and rescue groups in the US that house these animals - but sometimes there’s still not enough space for every animal in need.

We’re hopeful though. Innovative solutions are emerging, turning this uphill battle into a journey of hope. One of these amazing programs is Hope on Wheels, the transportation arm of Furry Friends Animal Rescue. Hope on Wheels provides transportation from point A to point B, taking animals to new locations that have more space for cats and dogs to thrive.

Since its beginnings a year and a half ago, Hope on Wheels has successfully relocated over 300 animals - with more to come! They have teamed up with another rescue organization in Pennsylvania that has five animal shelters, plenty of room for more wagging tails and purring pals. In the new shelters, these sweet animals are greeted with open arms, tender care, and the space they need to be happy and healthy.

The animals rescued by Hope on Wheels usually find their new families within a week of arriving in Pennsylvania. This partnership is a perfect example of how transportation programs like this are creating new possibilities to save dogs and cats. Plus, transporting animals from high-risk situations to safe havens not only saves lives, but also alleviates pressure on overcrowded facilities.

Inside the Hope on Wheels bus, cats and dogs are safely and lovingly transported to new homes with more space for them to thrive.

76 Cats and Kittens Rescued with Hope on Wheels

Here’s a heart-melter for you: Hope on Wheels recently arranged a journey for 76 cats and kittens to their new beginnings. Among these feline passengers were two nursing mamas who finally received the special foster care they deserve. Many of these cats hailed from Collier County on the west coast of Florida, an area hit hard by Hurricane Ian in 2022.

The shelters in Collier County were overwhelmed, housing 3.5 times the number of kitties they could manage. In these tough times, Hope on Wheels swooped in, helping save animal lives, giving these vulnerable critters the essential care they deserve. The rest of the whiskered travelers came from Miami-Dade County, where their futures were also hanging in the balance after this devastating hurricane.

It’s surprising to hear some of these cats had been waiting for a permanent home since they were little balls of fluff. And now, at six months old, they were finally en route to their dream come true - a permanent home. This success story shows how powerful teamwork can be and how giving animals a second shot at happiness makes all the difference in finding their furr-ever homes.

But wait, there's more! For 2023, the program’s overall goal is to average more than one transportation trip a month - that’s 14 trips total for 2023. Plans are already rolling for the next kitty caravan, aiming to move 110 cats and kittens. They’re also gearing up for a doggy-only transport, widening their life-saving circle even further.

It’s exciting to know that as we move forward, we continue to find new ways to expand our reach. Each initiative brings us one step closer to a world where every pet has a home and love awaits them at every turn.

Partners in Animal Welfare: You, Life’s Abundance and The Dr. Jane Foundation

None of this would be possible without the love and support from The Dr. Jane Foundation, which funds Hope on Wheels, and the generous hearts at Life's Abundance (both customers and employees!). Their combined compassion, volunteer hours and commitment make Hope on Wheels' vital work possible.

How can you help? When you make a purchase from Life’s Abundance, a portion of your total directly funds the foundation. You can also contribute more at check out if you want to give more.

This story began with the realization that while some shelters are bursting at the seams, others have room to welcome more furry residents. By bridging this gap, we can give countless animals a second chance at life and offer a lifeline to animals in dire situations.

So let's applaud the tireless efforts of organizations like Hope on Wheels and the many others working to make a difference. This partnership proves that together, we can achieve amazing things and make a real difference in the lives of our most vulnerable four-legged friends. Not to mention, saving pets' lives one bus ride at a time is a mission we're proud to be a part of!

References:
[1] Pet statistics. (n.d.). ASPCA.org. Retrieved from www.aspca.org/helping-people-pets/shelter-intake-and-surrender/pet-statistics#

 

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Our partnership with TREES helps break the cycle of hunger, poverty, and environmental destruction.

Hello, fellow Earth lovers! At Life's Abundance, we're all about making a positive impact on the environment, because let's be honest - Mother Earth needs a little extra love these days. And we're not just talking about double-tapping posts and commenting with emojis. That's why we partner with Trees for the Future to actually plant trees and promote sustainability like it's our job (well, it kind of is!).

But hey, we're not just planting trees and calling it a day - we're getting down and dirty (in the most eco-friendly way possible, of course) to actively contribute to reforestation efforts and promote sustainable practices. Dig in - we're spilling the tea on why we've teamed up with Trees for the Future to plant a greener tomorrow.

What is Trees for the Future (TREES)?

Trees for the Future is an ambitious, well-established non-profit organization all about improving the lives of farmers and restoring degraded lands through agroforestry, which combines farming and forestry to create a sustainable ecosystems.

Since 1989, they've planted over 220 million trees, making a positive impact on thousands of farmers in Sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America, and Southeast Asia. That same year, Exxon Valdez spilled tons of oil into the Pacific Ocean, so their actions came just in time. Trees for the Future is kind of like a fairy godmother for farming - making dreams come tree!

Trees for the Future has an innovative approach that combines:

• Tree planting with agricultural training
• Helping farmers revitalize their lands
• Improving locals' nutrition
• Generatining sustainable income

All of these actions over a long period of time have made Trees for the Future a beacon of hope for both farmers and the environment.

Through Trees for the Future, Life's Abundance supports farmers in Senegal to give farmers a chance to learn a new trade, while helping the environment.

Why Life's Abundance Partners with Trees for the Future

Life's Abundance shares a common vision with Trees for the Future: creating a more sustainable future for our planet. As a company that values environmental responsibility, we're committed to minimizing our own ecological footprint in all aspects of our business operations. So what if we sing to our plants? It's not hurting anybody!

When you support Trees for the Future, you're purposefully contributing to reforestation, which has benefits in three major areas for the environment:

1. Environmental Benefits of Reforestation
   Reforestation is a powerful tool in the fight against climate change. You know what's cooler than being cool? Trees! Yes, our leafy friends aren't only good for providing shade on a hot day, they're also nature's superheroes in the fight against climate change as they absorb and store carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. And let's not forget about endangered species - trees are like the ultimate Airbnb Superhosts, providing prime habitat for those cute critters in need of a home. Reforestation and planting trees also helps:
   • Restore degraded lands
   • Prevent soil erosion
   • Improve water quality
   When you purchase from Life's Abundance, you're basically joining forces with the Avengers of the eco-world! Because every time you buy one of our skincare products, we plant a tree to help protect biodiversity and our future on this planet.
   
   
2. Social Benefits of Reforestation
   Trees for the Future's agroforestry approach doesn't just benefit the environment, it also has significant social impacts (real ones that you won't see on social media). Through our partnership, we're contributing to:
   • Alleviating poverty
   • Empowering farmers
   • Providing food security
   • Creating stable livelihoods for farmers and their families
   Agroforesty ultimately fosters a sense of community as neighbors come together to plant trees, share knowledge, and celebrate the joy of nurturing the land. It's a lot like summer camp as a kid, but with a lot more dirt and elbow grease. And the payoff is a stronger society, wherever these trees are being planted.
   
   
3. Economic Benefits of Reforestation
   "Reforestation" isn't just some hippie mission (we don't take that lightly!) - it's a win-win for everybody, including the economy. Trees provide valuable resources like timber, fruits, and nuts, which can be used for food, fuel, and bringing more moolah into the hands of farmers. But that's not all - reforestation creates jobs, which means more people have a purpose and the finances to back it up. It's like planting seeds of economic prosperity that grow into money trees (not just the regular kind).

Looking Ahead to Our Future - With More Trees!

In a nutshell, our partnership with Trees for the Future reflects our commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. By supporting Trees for the Future, we're taking meaningful action towards a greener future. And when you donate or by stock up on our clean skincare, you can also positively affect climate change, protect biodiversity and promote sustainable economic development. Sounds pretty great, right?

So jump on the reforestation train, folks! It's good for the environment, good for society, and heck, it's even good for our wallets. Who knew trees could have such a widespread, positive impact? As a consumer, donate and join us in making a positive impact by supporting companies that prioritize environmental responsibility. Let's work together to create a better tomorrow!

 

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There are many ways you can help animal rescues during the holidays, even if you can't adopt just yet.

You’ll forever be a “superhero” in the eyes of any pet you adopt, but if you can’t commit to adoption just yet, you can at least reach “trusty sidekick” status by volunteering at your local animal shelter. This is especially true during the holidays when there’s often a shortage of staff. 

Here are eight creative ways you can help:

1. Become a wise adopter

Pets in a shelter have only one thing on their holiday wish list: get adopted by a loving parent.  It’s the happiest ending they could ever hope for as a rescue. But while you are indeed “rescuing” them, remember, there are responsibilities with being a pet parent. First, it’s a myth that shelters spay/neuter their animals, so be sure to address that if it’s important to you. There are also financial costs to consider, like visits to the vet, and the cost of feeding- let alone all the cute toys and accessories you’ll want to buy. This is why it’s smart to be an aware adopter – it leads to a happier life for you and your pet.

2. Foster a pet

Take a pet home for a short stay, say two weeks, to give them a break from their sheltered environment, that can be stressful, and ensure they get extra love and attention. If you already have a pet, this is a great way to help both your current pets and their new furry guest develop their social skills and hopefully introduce a new playmate.

3. Gratitude for shelter workers

Those working in shelters are super-dedicated and constantly looking to spread the word about pets available for adoption as well as the work they’re doing. Show your support by hash-tagging and mentioning your favorite shelters on social media. Or send them a hand-written thank you note they can proudly showcase in their reception area. If you’re a baker, why not take them oven-fresh holiday cookies, they make the purr-fect gift of appreciation.

4. Donate pet food and treats

Check first with your local shelter if you can bring in food and treats. Shelters are always hungry for support and if allowed, one of the best ways you can help is bringing in premium dog or cat food and delicious treats like our Pork and Apple Sausage Treats. Either choice will make you highly popular during visiting hours.

Show appreciation to dedicated shelter workers by sending thank you notes.

5. Donate to cover vet expenses

Rescued pets often sustain injuries from negligent owners or during their time wandering and medical bills can be a costly road to recovery. Your donation can help them live a happier, healthier life, making them ideal candidates for adoption.

6. Shelters need supplies

Your local shelter likely has a wish-list of things they need online. They could range from toys to towels to cleaning supplies. A shelter we heard about makes great use of an old bicycle they use to keep up with their dogs when they’re in the mood for a faster run.

7. Get pets adopted

Do you love pets but are allergic to them? Do you wish you could own a pet but you live in a pet-free building? Use your cell phone to take photos of some of the sheltered pets - the kind that pull at people’s heart strings - then post them on social media to let everyone know they’re available for adoption. If there’s anything that should be viral-worthy it’s the face of a cute kitten that needs a new loving home, even if it’s not your home.

8. Volunteer

Shelters are often short staffed. So grab a leash or three and help out by walking dogs, answering phones, feeding, cleaning or just playing with pets to keep them engaged and happy. There’s lots you can do, just ask. At Life’s Abundance, our employee-owners have begun to volunteer with Furry Friends, a local rescue. Check out the video below to see us in action!

When you shop at Life’s Abundance, a portion of the profits is set aside to fund our non-profit, The Dr. Jane Foundation - which helps support animals in need around the country. We recently partnered with Furry Friends, a local rescue, to aid in their mission. Read more here.

Gifts are always part of the holidays, but for pets and shelters, the gift of your time and love is especially valuable.

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The Dr. Jane Foundation has partnered with Furry Friends, a local rescue in Jupiter, FL.

Did you know that when you shop at Life’s Abundance, a portion of the profits is set aside to fund our charitable non-profit, The Dr. Jane Foundation? Whether you’re ordering delicious treats for your furry friends, or nutritional supplements for you and your family, every order you place helps to save the lives of homeless, abused and neglected animals across the U.S.

The Dr. Jane Foundation's current partnership is with Furry Friends, our neighbors at our headquarters in Jupiter, Florida. Furry Friends is a non-profit organization whose mission is to provide complete care for abused and abandoned dogs and cats. They rescue, provide medical care, rehabilitate, and place pets in forever homes! The Dr. Jane Foundation specifically supports their new Transport Bus Program, Hope On Wheels.

Furry Friends is one of the only shelters in Florida that has a fully-equipped rescue bus. It’s been used to support pets in disasters as well as saving them from euthanasia. In fact, the bus has the capacity to transport over 100 animals per journey!

Furry Friends loads their bus, Hope on Wheels, with dogs and cats to be transported to other rescues.

When Hurricane Ian hit Florida in September 2022, Furry Friends completed one of their largest bus transports, helping a number of affected animals. Check out some of these incredible journeys:

• 15 dogs and 20 cats were taken to a rescue in downtown Chicago to free up kennel space for displaced and lost pets after the hurricane.
• Over 100 animals were transported from damaged areas on Florida’s southwest coast to a staging ground in Jacksonville where they were taken to various shelters throughout the country.
• 50 dogs and cats were moved from storm zones to other shelters in the south and midwest.

In the first 10 months of this program, Furry Friends has been able to move more than 350 dogs and cats to safety, including those impacted by Hurricane Ian. They’re continuing to make a difference for these animals, and in 2023, they hope to double the size of their program and plan for 21 trips with continued support from our foundation.

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Our Foundation Gives Emergency Funding To Two Rescues

The conflict between Russia and Ukraine is now being called the fastest-growing refugee crisis since World War II, and it’s not only affecting the citizens but their pets as well.

When faced with making split-second decisions about what to take while fleeing their homes, it’s unimaginable to think anyone would want to leave their pet behind. However, unfortunately, it’s not always possible to bring them to their next destination, which has recently led to overcrowded shelters. Thankfully, there are some incredible organizations on the ground doing great work to keep these pets safe and fed, but they need help to continue their mission.

Luckily, The Dr. Jane foundation keeps an emergency fund on hand at all times. Although typically it’s been used to support natural disaster relief and recovery within the United States, and our hurricane-ravaged neighbors in the Bahamas, we’re honored to support one of these organizations in its mission, “Save Pets of Ukraine,” with a $5,000 donation.

This organization, led by local pet food manufacturer Kormotech, has already distributed more than 146 tons of pet food in just 20 days, and has given assistance to 514 pet care volunteers and animal shelters.

Save Pets of Ukraine is requesting donations for food, medicine, collars, and leashes from US companies and shipping them to Europe. Plus, they have partnered with US-based Greater Good Charities, which is collecting cash donations overseas.

Kormotech was founded in 2003 by Orest Vovk and his children, with a mission to make high-quality, affordable food for dogs and cats - which is in complete alignment of our mission here at Life’s Abundance. If you’d personally like to help the organization further their mission, you can learn more HERE.

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Live A More Sustainable Lifestyle

What It Means To Be An Employee Owned Company

Did you know that when you shop at Life’s Abundance, a portion of the profits is set aside to fund the good works of our charitable non-profit, The Dr. Jane Foundation? Whether you’re ordering nutritional supplements for yourself or premium food, treats and supplements for your furry friends, your repeat business helps to save lives of homeless, abused and neglected animals across the U.S.

In addition to our year-round competitive grant funding, The Dr. Jane Foundation, provides emergency funds to immediately address the needs that arise from disasters such as floods and fires across the U.S. For many of the non-profits affected by disaster, their annual budget planning simply cannot stretch to meet the unexpected, and often widespread needs of their community.  Since 2007, we’ve impacted over 250 communities and given awards totaling nearly $400,000!

We’re pleased to inform you that our Board of Directors expedited emergency funding to two rescue organizations to help with disaster relief from Hurricane Ida.

Jefferson SPCA

Jefferson SPCA is a non-profit that promotes animal welfare in Jefferson Parish, Louisiana. Due to Hurricane Ida, nearly 100 pets were evacuated from the shelter by the Houston Humane Society. Even through over a week without power and being the height of their kitten season, they quickly resumed adoptions for their dogs, cats, kittens, bunnies, and guinea pigs. A tireless crew of staff and volunteers never missed a beat taking care of all of the animals. 

When they’re not responding to a post-storm emergency, the shelter takes in lost pets until their owners reclaim them, as well holds adoptions, low cost spay/neuter clinics and a TNVR program. One of their main missions is to prevent and address animal cruelty by investigating any complaints as well as provide care for homeless pets in the area. They’re also committed to the health of these companion animals by giving them life-saving medical treatment. 

Louisiana SPCA

Louisiana SPCA is the oldest animal welfare organization in the state and has impacted over 73,000 homeless and companion animals in its time. Before Hurricane Ida hit, the shelter transported nearly 200 animals out of the destructive path of the storm. These four-legged evacuees were sent to partner shelters across the country, and those that couldn’t be transported were safely secured. After the damage from Hurricane Ida, the shelter is in need of emergency funding to provide proper care to their animals. As of this writing, they are still closed to the public, yet still providing clinic, animal control services. They are also reuniting dozens of pets each week with their displaced families, recruiting foster families, and coordinating the transport of animals between shelters. In 2020 alone, they helped more than 3,000 pets find their forever homes. They care deeply and prioritize compassion when dealing with their animals. Establishing companionship between the owner and their animal is part of their core values along with humane ethics, transparency, investing in their volunteers, and much more. They focus on humane pet adoptions, rescues and affordable veterinary services across Louisiana.

For everyone who actively supports the vital work of our non-profit, The Dr. Jane Foundation, we thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Thanks to your personal donations and continued Life's Abundance patronage, together we are helping these animal rescue groups achieve their missions of making a positive difference in the world, one animal at a time.

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Going green is more than just a trending topic. If you truly want to have a significant impact on your own ecological footprint and improve your local community, then you should consider adopting a more sustainable lifestyle. On the surface, it may seem difficult to transform your entire life and begin living in an eco-friendly way. However, you can take small steps and slowly change your habits in a way that will eventually make a big difference in the world around you.

Here are five ways that you can live a more sustainable life:

Minimize Your Plastic Use

It seems that everything and anything can be made out of plastic, and that material has taken a serious toll on our world. It is often found washed up on beaches and has been known to cause harm to animals that come into contact with it. One of the best ways to combat this global issue is to reduce your own use of single-use plastics. A few ideas that can help you get started include:

• Purchasing a reusable water bottle to use instead of buying disposable bottled water. Get fancy with it and buy one that really suits you.
• Metal and glass straws which are super affordable, eco-friendly alternatives to using regular plastic straws that are not biodegradable.
• Bring reusable, fabric bags to the store and give them to the bagger to use instead of plastic bags.

Shop at Thrift Stores

The process of manufacturing and distributing clothing products is incredibly draining on the world's natural resources, and the high turnover rate of new fashions has only compounded this issue. Rather than constantly buying a brand new wardrobe every season, you can shop at thrift stores to get great deals on clothes that are in excellent used condition. Even better, many of these stores have designer brands in stock that are still in season and in style!

Amp Up Your Recycling Efforts

One of the simplest ways to live a more sustainable life is to recycle as often as possible. If your community has a recycling program in place, make sure that you recycle every eligible product that you can. However, be mindful of what cannot be recycled as one tarnished recycling bin can compromise the entire load. In addition to participating in curbside recycling, you can also get creative and think about ways you can reuse the products in your house before you dispose of them. Some great ideas include:

• Repurpose glass jars to organize small items like nails and pins.
• Use egg cartons to start a gardening hobby.
• Turn your empty paper towel rolls into a DIY bird feeder.

Go to Farmer's Markets

At the farmer's market, you will be able to discover endless options for your next meal. There are tons of vendors available who sell fresh fruit, vegetables and dairy products. In addition, you can find homemade pastries and baked goods as well as other locally-produced food items. By shopping local at the farmer's market, you can support your community and reduce the need for cross-country transportation to get food into your area.

Be Mindful of Your Water Usage

Thousands upon thousands of gallons of water are wasted on a daily basis, while many around the world do not have access to clean, fresh water. By being more conscious about how much water you use and when you use it, you can aid in the water conservation efforts that are taking place worldwide. Some things you can do include:

• Take cooler, shorter showers.
• Buy a rain barrel to harvest fresh water to reuse in your garden.
• Wash your dishes by hand rather than using a dishwasher.

Buy from Sustainable Companies

Many companies are getting on the train of sustainability and incorporating eco-friendly practices into their daily operations. Choosing these green businesses over others that take a toll on the environment is just another way to live a more sustainable life. At Life’s Abundance, we aim to decrease our carbon footprint in just about every practice from product packaging to using solar panels. We took it an extra step with our Trees for the Future program by planting a tree for every clean beauty and clean body purchase. As a result, we will have planted over 1,000,000 trees by 2025!

As you take small steps toward a larger goal, it is important to know that a sustainable lifestyle is always within reach. By being conscious of the impact that you have on the environment and staying informed about the best ways to go green, you can improve your own health, reduce your ecological footprint and make the world a better place for the generations to come.

If you found this interesting, check out these related stories:

7 Ways To Make Your Home Eco-Friendly

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Since 2012, Life’s Abundance has been a 100% employee-owned company. Our purpose is to empower people and their pets to live healthier and happier lives. From the beginning, we have always put people first, and this includes our employees! We believe our team members have a lot to give, so they should benefit from all their hard work and share in our growth and success.

What is ESOP?

Employee Stock Ownership Plan, or ESOP, is a special type of employee benefit plan that allows workers to have shares within the company. How amazing is that? This means employees are stakeholders in the truest sense. That means everyone - from each warehouse team member to customer service to our executives- owns a portion of the company.

The decision to make Life’s Abundance a 100% employee-owned company originated from a discussion regarding exit strategies as the ownerships looked to retirement. Lester and the leadership team made preserving the mission and purpose of the company a priority, which could be hard to maintain during ownership changes. So, Lester proposed an ESOP which everyone, including the company owners, could see would protect the company culture, mission, and team members. It was an all-around great decision that was approved wholeheartedly.

How does it benefit consumers?

When employee owners have a stake in the company, you can feel it! Just call our Customer Care team or speak to anyone within the company, and you’ll realize you aren’t just speaking to just another employee. You’re speaking to an owner! It’s simple - owners make better employees. This ensures that you are receiving top-notch customer service all around from people who really care about serving you in the best way possible. As employee owners, we aim to lead with purpose and grow at a controlled pace. This allows us to put our full heart and attention into new projects that will ultimately make your experience with us unforgettable.

How does it benefit employees?

ESOP benefits all parties involved. Financially, we are better prepared for our future as ESOP is a retirement plan. Since we are vested owners, we are empowered to work more creatively. We find ways to better our performance and grow within the company. In turn, with our hard work and amazing results, the company’s performance improves and increases the value of the stock. It’s a win-win!

Employee ownership is fun!

Employee Ownership Month is celebrated every October, and we were able to have a super exciting ESOP Spirit Week, virtually of course. Each day, we did an activity that was either educational or just plain fun. Here’s a recap of how we celebrate being employee owned:

On Monday, we embraced our employee ownership by taking a photo of ourselves with a sign saying “I’m an employee owner.” Some departments went all out with their signs for added team spirit!

Tuesday, we were placed into random teams for a crossword puzzle competition that tests our knowledge on ESOP. The first team that completed the puzzle and sent it back to Human Resources received a sweet prize.

Wednesday was pajama day! As an employee-owned company, you can both see AND feel the difference in our team. We’re a tight knit group and loved showing up to our company-wide morning meeting dressed from head to toe in our comfiest pajamas, slippers and all.

As employee owners, everyone in the company has different roles and responsibilities, but we all work together in creating something great! That’s why Thursday was named crayon box day and each department was given a color to rock for the day. Even our CEO wore a tie-dye shirt since he brings each and every department together.

On Friday, we stopped by the virtual lunchroom and put our knowledge to the test. We played an ESOP trivia game with, once again, prizes for the winning team!

Employee ownership is fun, profitable and empowering for everyone we touch. It makes a big difference in the way we show up for each other and customers every single day. For Life’s Abundance, all of this energy and passion stems from the purpose we all share - to empower people and pets to live happier, healthier lives. From all of the employee-owners, thank you for your business.