In 2006, American traveler Blake Mycoskie befriended children in Argentina and found they had no shoes to protect their feet. Wanting to help, he created TOMS Shoes, a company that would match every pair of shoes purchased with a pair of new shoes given to a child in need. One for One. Blake returned to Argentina with a group of family, friends and staff later that year with 10,000 pairs of shoes made possible by TOMS customers.
Many children in developing countries grow up barefoot. Whether at play, doing chores or going to school, these children are at risk:
Closer to home there is also a need for shoes. Many families in America today are struggling to put food on the table and new shoes or shoes that fit properly are a luxury that these families cannot afford.
Today, your group can provide shoes for children here in America and also benefit those in other countries. Today, you will turn a pair of plain canvas shoes into a work of art that any child would be excited and proud to wear. Fabric markers, paint, glitter, and other decorating supplies will be available as participants put their personal touch on a pair of TOMS shoes.
To inspire the participants, the event kicks-off or ends with participants learning how their actions helped others. A representative from the charity receiving the shoes can also be invited to come to the stage to share stories about their organization and the children who will receive the shoes. A list of potential local charities can be provided, or feel free to pick your favorite local charity! We’ll also be sure to remind the participants that the shoes at the event are not the only shoes being donated. With TOMS One for One program, another pair of shoes will be donated to children in need for every pair decorated at this event.
This is one event that will warm your heart and “sole!”
Ideal Group Size | 20 or more participants |
Ideal Team Size | n/a |
Event Length | 1 hour |
Event Location | This event typically takes place indoors |
Level of Customization | Very little except for in emcee talking points |
Event Elements | Relationship building, creativity, time management, charity |
Charitable Elements | Decorated shoes to be donated to local charity |
Space Requirements | Approximately 18-20 sq. ft. per person |
Set Up Required | 100% seating at draped and skirted banquet rounds plus six or eight foot draped and skirted tables around perimeter of the room as needed for supplies (dependent on number of participants). Power for the DJ (standard outlet) is required. |
Note: Based on event location and group size, event details may differ slightly from above description