R-ring! R-ring! An alarm clock blares its daily wake-up call. A huddled shape rolls out of bed and slowly pulls on clothes and a pair of shoes. While this routine seems like a normal day, this privilege remains only a dream for thousands of children around the world.
Founded in 2006 by Blake Mycoskie, Tomorrow’s Shoes (TOMS) aims to bring shoes to impoverished people all over the world. The charity’s motto, “One for one,” is demonstrated by its objective of raising enough funds to donate a pair of shoes for each pair sold.
Cathy Robbins, ’10, has taken initiative to get involved with the organization due to her passion for helping others.
“I first heard of TOMS shoes in a magazine as a fashion statement,” said Robbins. “Then I re-heard about it from Jason Dunn [lead singer of the band Hawk Nelson]. I loved the cause so much I decided to become a high school intern.”
Robbins says the charity has value because of the basic necessities it provides for needy children.
“We don’t think of shoes as a big deal, but they really are,” Robbins said. “Many impoverished people get a disease called elephantiasis, which causes the feet to swell up enormously. It can lead to death, but simply wearing shoes is an easy way to prevent it.”
In order to further publicize TOMS’ cause, Robbins hosts events twice a semester for the organization. These occasions aim to spread the word about the organization.
“I have done ‘Style Your Sole’ parties, where everyone decorates a pair of TOMS shoes,” Robbins said. “I also put on a concert. A Current Affair played, where I showed a TOMS documentary and talked about the cause.
“At the events, everyone gets a promo code for a $5 discount. Putting on the events is my favorite part because it gets the news out, and they are really fun! It’s a great way to meet new people who are interested in the cause.”
As with any new venture, Robbins says obstacles have given her unexpected challenges, but also an opportunity to increase her faith.
“Although I have had a lot of difficulties so far, I learned a lot through them,” Robbins said. “Pastor Chad [Johnson, high school pastor at Peoples Church] helped a lot, and I grew in my faith in God as well.”
Robbins’ dedication to the organization has widened its influence on campus. Leah Christopher, ’10, heard about the shoes through her publicity.
“At first, I planned to purchase simply because Cathy is my friend,” said Christopher. “However, after hearing about TOMS’ mission, I wholeheartedly wanted to support it as well.
“After traveling to Mexico last year, I saw a lot of poverty firsthand. It really opened my eyes, because the children in Africa and South America are even worse off than them. I’m glad that I could be a part of helping those kids.”
TOMS will host a city-wide walk to raise awareness for its cause, April 16. The organization is also planning a trip to the FC campus to talk about the cause, and host a ‘Style Your Sole’ party, May 1.
For more information, visit the TOMS Web site or talk to Robbins.
