When Julie Marie Chavez and Joe Cerbo co-founded Chavez for Charity in 2013, the entrepreneurial duo shared an ambitious vision. They dreamed of starting a business that would allow them to contribute in a significant way to some of the most important humanitarian issues facing our world today.

Julie and Joe set forth with a new business idea that would build off each of their backgrounds, leveraging Julie’s experience as the Founder and Designer of the small yet highly coveted jewelry line Marie Chavez whose fans included high-profile talent such as Julia Roberts, Jennifer Garner, Rosario Dawson, and Anne Hathaway, and Joe’s experience in marketing and business development working for companies like Ford Models and eBay’s GSI Commerce. The result was a carefully crafted brand that is unique in its mission and has a purpose much greater than profits. 

Chavez for Charity was launched with a colorful collection of high quality stone and glass beaded bracelets that would serve as the cornerstone of their trademark concept, ‘Colors for Causes.’

EACH OF THE TEN COLORS IN THE COLLECTION REPRESENTED A DISTINCT CAUSE THAT WAS MEANINGFUL TO THEM AND WITH EVERY SALE, THEIR COMPANY WOULD DONATE AN IMPACTFUL 25% OF PROFITS TO A CORRESPONDING CHARITY.

Now, just over three years later, Chavez for Charity and its signature colorful bracelets are gracing the wrists of women, men and children everywhere. During this short time, not only have Julie and Joe built a highly admired collection of bracelets, necklaces and earrings from the ground up, but they have also inspired people and communities to join them in helping to raise awareness and funds for critical causes worldwide.

From supporting efforts to bring clean water and sanitation to rural and impoverished communities, to providing life-changing education for children lacking quality schools, Chavez for Charity is determined to make a positive and lasting impact on those in need. In 2014, the company received Whole Planet Foundation’s Vanguard Award for its commitment to promoting sustainable practices and changing global environments. Now, in 2016, Chavez for Charity is not only being honored by Gift for Life with the Gift and Home Industry Achievement Award, but due to their generous contribution model, the company is also celebrating its millionth dollar donated. 

Now with over 6,000 stores across the U.S. and Canada carrying their iconic collection, Julie and Joe have established an exceptional reputation in the industry for their personal approach to business and their sincere belief in their mission. Their long-term goal is to create a global brand that transcends jewelry and is at the forefront of inspiring others, creating community and raising funds to ultimately transform the lives of people in need throughout the world.