As folks around the country are becoming more optimistic about returning to “normal,” most recognize we still have a long way to go. Publishers have not been immune to the economic and human impacts of COVID-19, but week after week we continue to spotlight those that are looking forward and seeking out ways to help others.
Backpacker
The Active Interest Media brand for outdoor enthusiasts, Backpacker, didn’t want social distancing to prevent its community from enjoying traditional outdoor activities like camping and and especially camp fires. This is why it launched a virtual campfire on Facebook Live, complete with sing along music. Now, it has taken that concept even further for a free day-long “Camp-In” festival on May 16. It will feature guided yoga and “mountain fitness,” art, gear and cooking demos, author readings and, of course, live music, with acts that include G-Love, Alt Bloom, Emily Hackett and Chain Station. Additionally, there will be a photo contest and a number of giveaways from the brand’s partners for those tuned in during the drawings.
HODINKEE
The luxury watch seller and magazine publisher HODINKEE has used its brand authority to help its retail partners as well as raise money for COVID-19 relief. The publisher has kept its online store open and is offering e-commerce capabilities to independent retailers to sell watches to the brand’s community of watch lovers. Further, it’s producing two weekly stories that spotlight independent retailers in order to raise brand awareness during the economic downturn. Finally, HODINKEE Shop is donating 10% of all of its sales to the Coronavirus Relief Fund.
Teen Vogue
The Condé Nast brand recognizes the importance of teenage milestones like prom and commencement, which is why it’s hosting a virtual version of both events. On May 16, Teen Vogue will hold a virtual prom with a long list of special guests and performers, from actors to musicians to TikTok stars. Demand has been so high that it had to cap the number of high schools joining, but it still has plenty of space for individuals and their friends to join the fun.
On May 31, it will once again open up its platform for a virtual high school commencement. Like the prom, this will be a free event and, according to the brand, will feature “inspiring and uplifting commencement addresses from some of our favorite celebrities, noteworthy figures and inspiring young members of this year’s graduating class.
Access Publishing
Access Publishing’s Paso Robles Daily News donated more than 1,000 surgical masks to local California businesses to help their reopening efforts. It also received additional support from area businesses to purchase 1,500 more, bringing the total to 2,500. The masks will be given to Chamber of Commerce members who need them to keep their employees and customers safe. Co-owner of Access Publishing, Scott Brennan, was able to source the hard-to-find masks from an entrepreneur friend in Taiwan, and paid nearly a dollar each. Brennan said they took nearly three weeks to arrive and clear customs, but it was well worth the investment and wait. He also says more are on the way.
Are you a publisher that’s doing something to give back to your community? Let us know!
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