I consider myself a pretty conscious individual - I think carefully before I speak, act, make decisions, etc. in daily life and often find myself looking at the deeper implications or consequences in situations. But from a consumer angle, I've struggled to identify with many products/brands that I personally feel share that type of mindset. It's most often a transactional exchange of my money for what is either a "good" or "poor" quality item that either is "functional" or "useless" and either "ethically produced or..."not so much". Getting a checkmark in all 3 of the good quality, functional, and ethically produced columns is a big win, albeit a rare occurrence. So you can imagine my very pleasant surprise when a friend of mine introduced me to this brand's apparel, which does exactly that, but also gets a checkmark in a 4th column! I'd been in the market for a few casual, but stylish shirts to augment my wardrobe and had really wanted something high-quality (read: durable), comfy (read: SOFT!), and sustainably made (read: guilt-free) - something I would just love wearing for a long time and feel good about. My friend told me about her great experience with Lonesome George & Co. products and how I would not only be able to find some great looking designs that met those criteria but also be part of a solution to social and community issues through my purchase. I was amazed to learn that this company actual "does" something meaningful for the world by running their business, that it is a vehicle for a much larger mission to equip our youth with tools to make a difference through the "Academy of Agents of Change". I was blown away that a simple purchase from what seemed like a simple little clothing company could have so many positives to it! When I received my shirts, I was immediately drawn to the feel of the 100% SUPER SOFT organic cotton, striking design and quality detail embroidery (I was told later that this is done by at-risk groups and single moms who have been given the opportunity to contribute as part of the local labor pool in Peru - wow!). The fit hugs you nicely and definitely has a "fashion" flare to it (note: they seem to be more of a slimmer fit than roomy so just be aware). I am extremely happy with my purchase and am so glad I discovered Lonesome George & Co. I truly feel like a conscious consumer when wearing these tees knowing that I can look good, feel good, and do good all at the same time!

Lonesome George & Co. sells organic, Peruvian pima cotton graphic tees. 10% of every purchase helps fund work beyond outdoor classrooms to a growing network of change agents at Outward Bound and Ashoka (global leading organizations)—inspiring students, supporters, advocates, and leaders alike. The founder frequently visits Galapagos Islands and ten years ago he came across Lonesome George—its most famous resident and a worldwide conservation icon. As the last surviving Pinta Tortoise, Lonesome George’s cautionary tale of extinction unfolded as a result of human actions and mismanagement of scarce resources. Inspired by his story, Lonesome George & Co. was founded to educate tomorrow’s youth and to prevent other Lonesome George situations from happening at a time of frightening and increasing extinction rates. It is a great story to read about. You feel good after buying a t-shirt because you know it supports a good cause and the shirts are comfortable and cool to wear. There are a lot of different graphics to choose from and each shirt has inspirational messages.