Timberland and Ringo Starr: Stepping Up for Clean Water
In a groundbreaking collaboration, Timberland has joined forces with rock legend Ringo Starr to launch ‘Canvas that Cares’. This innovative program aims to raise funds for non-profit organizations through the auction of limited-edition Earthkeepers® boots. The initiative kicks off with a bang, featuring Starr’s original peace sign artwork on a collection of eco-friendly footwear.
A Step in the Right Direction
Timberland, known for its outdoor lifestyle brand, is taking its commitment to social responsibility to new heights. The ‘Canvas that Cares’ program aligns perfectly with the company’s long-standing mantra of “doing well and doing good.” As Mike Harrison, Timberland’s chief brand officer, expressed, “We could not think of a better partner for our launch than Ringo Starr.”[1]
Ringo’s Artistic Touch
Starr’s contribution goes beyond his celebrity status. The former Beatles drummer has personally designed and signed 75 pairs of Timberland® Earthkeepers® City 6″ Leather and Fabric Side Zip boots. Each pair features a colorful peace sign on a canvas panel, symbolizing Starr’s personal mantra of peace and love. Three embroidered stars on the back of the boot cleverly nod to the artist’s name.[2]
Eco-Friendly Footwear
These limited-edition boots aren’t just about style and star power. They’re a testament to Timberland’s commitment to sustainability. The boots feature Bionic® canvas, a unique material made from organic cotton wrapped around a recycled PET core. This innovative fabric is twice as strong as traditional canvas and dries 30% faster. Additionally, ion-mask™ technology by P2i repels water and stains, ensuring dry feet without compromising breathability.[3]
Bidding for a Cause
The auction, hosted on eBay, ran from December 1 to December 11, 2011. With a starting bid of $250 per boot package, the collaboration aimed to raise a minimum of $18,750 for WaterAid, a non-profit dedicated to improving access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene in the world’s poorest communities.
“For thirty years, WaterAid has brought clean water to millions of people in the world’s poorest communities,” Starr commented. “This partnership with Timberland will allow others to make a real difference in these people’s lives.”[1]
A Ripple Effect
The impact of this collaboration extends beyond the auction. Starr’s “All-Starr Band” wore the limited-edition boots on their tour dates, further amplifying the message. This initiative not only raises funds but also increases awareness about global water issues.
As reported by The Guardian, this collaboration marks a significant step in celebrity-driven charitable initiatives. Similarly, Billboard highlighted the unique intersection of music, fashion, and philanthropy in this project.
In an era where consumers increasingly demand corporate social responsibility, Timberland and Ringo Starr have set a new standard. They’ve shown that style, sustainability, and social impact can indeed walk hand in hand.
Sources
[1] The Guardian. (2011, December 1). Ringo Starr and Timberland launch charity boot auction. https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2011/dec/01/ringo-starr-timberland-boots-charity
[2] Billboard. (2011, December 1). Ringo Starr Teams With Timberland for Charity Boot Auction. https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/ringo-starr-timberland-boots-charity-auction-1165339/
[3] Timberland. (2011). Earthkeepers® City 6″ Leather and Fabric Side Zip. https://www.timberland.com/shop/mens-earthkeepers-city-6-leather-and-fabric-side-zip-boots-a1gzx001
