For Paul and Peter Hirsch, running a business is about more than profits. It’s about giving back – supporting the community they call home and worthy causes close to their hearts. That’s why the proprietors of supplier Hirsch Gift (asi/61005) sprang into action to spearhead relief efforts in their corner of Houston following Hurricane Harvey last year. And, it’s why they recently launched a new line called Patriot Coolers.

Currently, the line consists of stainless steel, double-wall insulated tumblers, which are inspired by the American flag, featuring as they do 50 stars on the bottom base and 13 stripes in the grip. Roto molded coolers will be launching in May, just in time for summer.

The Patriot products are high quality, but what really sets the line apart is the way Hirsch has weld philanthropy into its business model. Indeed, Hirsch Gift is donating 20% of net proceeds from Patriot sales to Homes For Our Troops, a nonprofit organization that builds and donates specially adapted custom homes for severely-injured American military veterans who have served since the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. Hirsch Gift has set the goal of donating $100,000 for the year. 

The HFOT mission carried great appeal to Peter and Paul Hirsch – South African natives who have developed a deeply felt love and appreciation for their adopted country. They selected to partner with the nonprofit because it helps veterans in particular – and because nearly 90 cents of every dollar at Homes For Our Troops goes directly to program services for veterans. “We believe Homes For Our Troops would be the perfect fit with Patriot Coolers’ mission of being patriotic and giving back to veterans,” Paul Hirsch told Counselor. “Patriot Coolers is fully-committed to creating a positive change in the lives of our fellow Americans.”

For distributors, the do-gooding behind the Patriot line is a huge selling point for a wide range of clients. There are the obvious end-buyers -- military and government, as well as veterans’ organizations. But beyond that, the patriotic mission could ring true to the red-white-and-blue ethos found at many unions, trucking companies, manufacturers and more – really any organization that wants to align its brand with sincere patriotism. 

For suppliers, the line is, perhaps, a good indication of how building charity and positive social outreach into a product line and/or company business model can help distinguish a brand and broadly enhance its appeal – all while helping to bring a little more good into the world.

Now Listen: Peter Hirsch on Philanthropy:

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