A Legacy of Care
Throughout her career, Mary Kay Ash prioritized giving back and serving others, weaving generosity into the fabric of her company and inspiring the foundations that bears her name. Her legacy continues, inspiring today’s generation of Mary Kay leaders to further her commitment to serve women and families around the world.
This year, we are honored to present our Bravo Global Good Award to Mary Kay for the company’s consistent support of environmental, philanthropic and social responsibility issues.
Caring about Women
“Mary Kay’s focus on philanthropy was the same that she had in business—she was dedicated to empowering women,” shared Sheryl Adkins-Green, Chief Experience Officer at the company. “Today, we focus on five main philanthropic areas: improving the lives of women by providing entrepreneurship education and support; supporting research on cancers that affect women; conducting research and supporting organizations that combat domestic violence; and ensuring we are making the world a better place through sustainability efforts at Mary Kay while supporting environmental organizations.”
Mary Kay is changing lives globally through four unique company-sponsored foundations: Mary Kay Ash Foundation in the United States, Mary Kay Ash Charitable Foundation in Canada, Instituto Mary Kay in Brazil and five programs and funds set up in partnership with Mary Kay China. Additionally, through the company’s Pink Changing Lives commitment, Mary Kay is improving the lives of women and their families by linking arms with many partner organizations, donating over $17 million since 2008.
Caring about the Planet
Mary Kay’s commitment to environmental sustainability is demonstrated tangibly in several ways, including the company’s use of 100 percent biodegradable packing materials made from corn and potato starch and the 100 percent renewable energy that powers Mary Kay’s headquarters and manufacturing facilities. These manufacturing facilities in the US and China also operate as zero landfill sites. But the company’s environmental focus is only one part of Mary Kay’s commitment to sustainability.
“Today at Mary Kay, our Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) strategy weaves business excellence, product stewardship, responsible manufacturing, women’s empowerment and social impact to their growth,” Sheryl explained. “We have a commitment to intentional and sustainable initiatives to address global challenges threatening future generations. Our ESG strategy is vital because it represents a holistic approach to doing business that prioritizes not just financial gains but also positive impacts on the environment and society.”
Just as Mary Kay Ash made helping women everywhere her mission, the company’s philanthropic efforts—from its commitment to a more sustainable future to serving those in need—are designed to enrich women’s lives and empower them to create change in the world.
Mary Kay celebrates the women leading the company’s impactful work in every area of sustainability, including water stewardship, conversation, ocean restoration, the empowerment of women in STEM fields, cancer research, global entrepreneurship and gender equality research. As Mary Kay continues to uplift women, the company is changing communities and culture, bringing its founder’s values to life in new ways.
Caring about the Future
“I’m proud of our values-centered culture,” Sheryl shared. “Our enduring commitment to timeless values such as treating others with respect and integrity; making people feel valued; and adhering to the golden rule, reflects the essence of Mary Kay Ash’s vision. These values transcend borders and cultures, shaping our actions and impact on a global scale.”
Mary Kay’s sustainability efforts are not only a reflection of its founder’s values, but a proactive, hope-filled promise to women and families everywhere. The company’s sustainability program thoughtfully aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, empowering Mary Kay to participate as part of a broader movement to care for our world. With accomplishments to celebrate from last year and a fresh slate of sustainability goals ahead, Mary Kay remains focused on new ways to serve and steward in 2024.
“In 2024, we look forward to an exciting announcement with the Arbor Day Foundation, as well as continuing our efforts in responsible water use and conservation,” Sheryl said. “Building on our success, we aim to implement more advanced water-saving technologies and practices across our operations. Enhancing our water stewardship not only reflects our commitment to environmental sustainability but also supports our broader goal of empowering women and communities through improved access to clean water.”
Congratulations to Mary Kay for this Bravo Global Good Award and many thanks for your commitment to caring for this world we share, as well as the millions of women you inspire.
From the June 2024 issue of Direct Selling News magazine.
