Nice Shoes: Clarks helps UNICEF help Haiti

Words by Jason “J-Rockaz” Orford

As we reflect on the one year anniversary of the catastrophic earthquake in Haiti, there is much to be said and much more work to be done. There are many government agencies, NGOs, celebrities as well as everyday individuals and members of the Haitian diaspora who are who are supporting the efforts to rebuild a strong and vibrant new Haiti (not without some controversy, of course). However I had to let folks know about a partnership to help Haiti that leads by example, which just happens to be spearheaded by the footwear brand with the biggest buzz of 2011; Clarks.

It’s no wonder the brand is world renowned, Clarks is just a cool down to earth company. Back in 2005 I read an awesome book about successful companies and “branding” called Love Marks by Kevin Roberts, CEO of Saatchi and Saatchi. The book was a gift from an executive at the ad agency who told me that it was full of wisdom and she was right. Clarks is listed as a lovemark alongside other brands customers patronize time and again. We here at at LARGE UP have been talking to you about these cool shoes both as loyal customers and Clarks enthusiasts ourselves (and of course the infamous Vybz Kartel hit tune titled “Clarks” didn’t hurt).

So what is Clarks doing for Haiti? Firstly, they are using their brand website to collect monetary donations on behalf of UNICEF. With a global name and such a loyal customer base that’s a seriously good look. Impacting Haiti indirectly is a shoe drive in the UK. Anyone willing to donate old shoes of any sort can do so by dropping them off at any of 600 Clarks stores. The shoes will be recycled and the funds will go to UNICEF, which in turn is raising funds for the children of Haiti. That’s awesome and maybe we’ll hear a another homage to the to this cool company in a zouk or kompa song. (Call us! We know a few artists fit for the task!) Either way this endeavor is another reason I’ll be rockin’ my Clarks even when the music stops playing.