Charles River Apparel (asi/44620) is ramping up its philanthropic Charles River Cares program, creating new partnerships with charitable organizations focused on disaster relief, environmental conservation and cancer research.

The partnerships with All Hands and Hearts, American Rivers and the Pan-Mass Challenge (PMC) come after a robust year of giving for the Massachusetts-based supplier. In 2024, Charles River Apparel said it donated more than $300,000 in monetary and product donations – supporting causes ranging from cancer research to disaster relief – through Charles River Cares, which was launched in 2010.

“For us, giving back isn’t just something we do – it’s part of our DNA,” said Jason Lipsett, president of Charles River Apparel. “As a family-owned business, we believe in using our platform to make a real difference, and we’re honored to partner with organizations that share our dedication and values.”

Moving forward, Charles River Apparel has defined four key focus areas to guide its giving strategy: cancer and wellness, homelessness and poverty, environmental conservation, and disaster relief.

All Hands and Hearts leads disaster relief efforts, providing immediate aid and long-term rebuilding for communities affected by disasters. Earlier this year, Charles River Apparel donated $10,000 to the organization through a show-special sample sale at PPAI Expo.

“When disaster strikes, communities need more than immediate relief: They need long-term support to rebuild stronger and more resilient than before,” said Nate Mook, CEO of All Hands and Hearts. “The most effective recovery happens when organizations are united by a shared commitment to strengthening communities for the future.”

American Rivers is a national conservation organization that works to make every river clean and healthy for people and wildlife. It’s a cause with particular meaning for the apparel supplier, executives said, because the company is named after the Charles River – the longest river in Massachusetts. In recognition of the new partnership, Charles River Apparel recently donated $25,000 to support American Rivers’ efforts.

“Rivers provide much of our clean water, support thousands of wildlife species, and give us opportunities to connect with nature,” said Tom Kiernan, president and CEO of American Rivers.

The PMC has been a driving force in raising funds for lifesaving cancer research and treatment at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute for more than 45 years. The bike-a-thon raises more money for charity than any other single athletic fundraising event in the country. In 2024, PMC riders raised a record-breaking $75 million, bringing its total fundraising to more than $1 billion since 1980.

This new partnership holds deep personal significance for Barry Lipsett, CEO of Charles River Apparel, who has participated in the PMC for over 20 years and has raised over $130,000 for the organization. He now rides in honor of his sister, Susan, and mother, both of whom lost their battles with cancer. Many employees of Charles River Apparel have also participated in the PMC by riding and volunteering during PMC Ride Weekend, which takes place every August.

“The PMC is built on the collective dedication of our riders, volunteers, and partners who share a passion for our mission to fund lifesaving cancer research and treatment,” said Billy Starr, founder and chairman of the Pan-Mass Challenge.