Caring for our communities is cool and this summer we did not come to play. Even though we’re ready for all things fall, we're excited to recap some of our stores' community work that helped so many and inspires us to do even more going forward. -- Sophia Valenzuela

Starting this season off in June for Pride Month, UO partnered with GLSEN, “the leading national education organization focused on ensuring safe schools for all students.” To raise awareness and funds, UO Santa Monica hosted a Self-Care Conversation focusing on the mental health struggles creators of color face that also doubled as a fundraising raffle for GLSEN! We love to see it.

In the month of August, UO wanted to "Fund Your Future" and teamed up with Fujifilm to give away $20,000 in College Scholarships to students who want to make an impact in their communities! The contest runs through the fall, so to enter, apply online here and complete your application by October 11th.

It was a booked and busy July filled with store-led events to help raise both cash and food donations for Los Angeles Community Fridges. The turnouts to these initiatives were incredible! So many people that are a part of our UO Community showed up to help our neighbors have access to necessities like hygiene kits, non-perishable goods and water during the hot summer months. Special thank you to the team members of UO Rialto, UO Pasadena, UO Westwood, and UO Burbank for encouraging our customers at checkout to donate to our collective LA Community Fridge efforts.

By word of mouth and the power of social media, we were able to make a difference. We appreciate the time and selfless work that was done this summer to contribute to our year-round initiatives. Let’s do some more good this fall season!