Better Because, LLC
BETTER BECAUSE
Better Because, LLC is a Seattle based multi-media company founded in 2009 with a mission to inspire an international movement to motivate others and bring out the positive in their lives. Through its book, merchandise, and other projects, Better Because has an unmistakably upbeat outlook and are reaching out to people and asking them, “Why is your life better?”
Background
The co-founders of Better Because, Cathy Haffner and Ginny Hutchinson have been friends for over twenty years, and are both former Fortune 100 executives. Although these two moms had high profile jobs and were financially successful, they could not help feeling that there was something missing in their lives. One night over dinner, Haffner and Hutchinson shared their desires to contribute and make a difference. To their surprise, they discovered that they not only had this in common, but they both had recently quit their jobs. This fateful dinner sparked the beginning of what they called “Project Inspiration”, which ultimately materialized into their new venture, Better Because.
Website and Social Networking
At www.betterbecause.com 1, the company provides a platform for people to express themselves and share their thoughts and stories of what has made their life better. Those who go on the website can sign up to receive weekly “Better Life” messages or read Haffner and Hutchinson’s blog so that no matter what life brings you, you can stay inspired. On the Better Because website, there is also a line of apparel and other merchandise available that features different sayings stating why life is better, (“Better Because of coffee/my dog/soccer/music/chocolate, etc.”)
You can also follow Better Because through Twitter and connect with Better Because by becoming a fan on Facebook.
Books
“Better Because of You,” was published in 2009 and is the first out of seven books that Haffner and Hutchinson plan to write. The book provides kernels of advice and wisdom to counter negativity and find happiness in daily life. This is a little guide book that assists the reader in navigating through the seven facets of life---health, wealth, wisdom, work, play, others and service. “Better Because of You” is dotted with inspiring stories, quotes, and fun exercises to help the reader find balance and feel a little bit more inspired than they did before.
Charity
Through the Better Because Foundation (BBF), the company donates a percentage of the proceeds from its book, merchandise, and other projects to worthy organizations that promote global education. In 2009, BBF made their first donation to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology spotlighting ethics and leadership. BBF also made a contribution to the Dalai Lama Center for Ethics and Transformation Values. Recently, Better Because began working with Room to Read, which is an organization dedicated to improving the quality of education for children in developing countries.
Other Projects
Better Because hosted a Smile Campaign on their website last year and challenged people to gather as many smiles from every country around the world. Currently the company is busy expanding their line of inspirational merchandise and a film is in the works that will highlight truly amazing people who have made an impact so that everyone can learn from their example.