Cape Cod Cares: Meet the Nonprofit Organization Empowering Communities to Shop Local
If you’ve ever wondered how you can make a difference in your community through your shopping choices, you’re in for a treat! I had the pleasure of sitting down with Amanda, the passionate executive director of Love Live Local, a nonprofit on Cape Cod. This organization is dedicated to celebrating the unique charm of Cape Cod by supporting local businesses and encouraging community growth. I was amazed by the conversation I had with Amanda and wanted to share everything I learned. Keep reading to hear more about how your money makes a difference when you choose to shop local!
Love Live Local’s Mission: Embracing Community
Did you know that when you choose to shop locally, around 68% of your hard-earned dollars stay right within your community? Talk about a win-win situation! By supporting local businesses, you’re not only getting top-notch products and services, but you’re also fueling the local economy, creating jobs, and fostering a sense of community pride.
Love Live Local is on a mission to create a thriving local economy while preserving the unique character of Cape Cod. Their commitment to celebrating independent businesses, artisans, and community initiatives have contributed greatly to the Cape’s vibrant spirit.
Meet Amanda – The Visionary Behind Love Live Local
Let’s start by introducing you to Amanda, the executive director of Love Live Local. With her unwavering passion for small business advocacy, Amanda has played a pivotal role in driving positive change. Before co-founding Love Live Local, she was the owner of Shift Eco Boutique in downtown Hyannis. She serves the community in many ways such as: President of the Board of Trustees for the Hyannis Public Library, founding Board member of Amplify POC Cape Cod, and member of the Town of Barnstable’s Local Comprehensive Planning Committee.
As I learned about Amanda’s background, it was clear to me that she is extremely knowledgeable of the Cape Cod community and business development.
Storefront Products and Online Store: Supporting Local Artisans
At Love Live Local’s storefront, you can explore the diverse range of 100+ brands and designers of artisan crafts, locally sourced goodies, and Cape-inspired merchandise. Some brands you can expect to see featured are: Cape Cod Chokers, Atlantic Soap Company, Cape Cloth, etc.
I was stunned when I walked into their storefront in Downtown Hyannis. Their store is beautifully designed and showcases the products in such an aesthetic way – I wanted to buy everything!
For those who don’t live on Cape Cod, don’t worry! You can still support Cape Cod’s local businesses from anywhere in the world. Click here to view their online store! To shop in person, you can visit the storefront on Tuesday – Saturday from 11 AM to 5 PM.
Love Local Fests: Celebrating Cape Cod’s Community Spirit
Love Live Local is renowned for their vibrant Love Local Fests that bring the community together. These festivals are free to the public and are filled with 75+ local vendors, live music, delicious food, and a lively atmosphere. Mark your calendars for the upcoming 2023 Fests which will be held on July 30th, September 24th and December 2nd!
If you’re a local entrepreneur looking to showcase your products or services, you can fill out the vendor application to participate in one of these fantastic celebrations.
Love Local Field & Gift Guide: Uncovering Cape Cod’s Hidden Gems
Before visiting Amanda, I was researching the Love Live Local website and came across their “Field Guide & Gift Guide.” I was very intrigued by this resource and knew I had to ask more questions when I visited. As an annual Cape Codder, I can assure you that these guides are perfect for vacationers, staycationers and local residents.
Amanda explained that the “Love Local Field Guide” is a comprehensive resource that unveils Cape Cod’s hidden gems, from local businesses and farmers’ markets to community initiatives and must-visit destinations. The Guide is released annually in mid-May and can be viewed in both print and digital format. All past issues are also featured on their website. Hard copies can be picked up in the store and are also carried at local coffee shops.
In late November, keep your eye out for their “Love Local Gift Guide” which is released just in time to help you during the holiday gift giving season. The Gift Guide highlights dozens of gift ideas for all personality types and includes an extensive fashion section. This Guide provides you with unique and meaningful present ideas that also support the local economy. It can’t get much better than that!
Local Stories: Celebrating Cape Cod’s Inspirational Individuals
On my way to the storefront, I was walking Downtown and recognized many shop names that happened to be listed in the Love Local Field Guide. I mentioned this to Amanda and she explained how I could learn even more about these small businesses by reading the “Shop Local Stories.”
These articles dive deep into the stories of local businesses, artisans, and individuals who embody the Cape Cod spirit. These stories are truly heartwarming and made me feel more connected to the community. I believe it’s important to not only know where your money is going but also to whom specifically.
Transparency and Impact: Love Live Local Annual Report
For an exclusive glimpse into Love Live Local’s impact, you can view their 2022 Annual Report. Their 2023 annual report is about to be released, so keep an eye out for that! In this report, you can gain insights into the organization’s achievements, community collaborations, and future initiatives that continue to shape Cape Cod.
Stay Connected & Involvement Opportunities
There are many ways in which you can help support Love Live Local, even if you don’t live on the Cape. Click here to donate and support the movement to shop local.
To receive their latest updates, news, and events, be sure to follow their social media channels to stay connected. Their Instagram page is super aesthetic and makes you feel like you are a part of the Cape Cod community. Additionally, you can sign up for their monthly email newsletter to receive insider tips, exclusive offers, and learn more about their work.
There are also a variety of volunteer opportunities including the need for: Board members, committee members, volunteers for the tri-annual Love Local Fests, and retail help in the downtown Hyannis store.
Reflection & Final Thoughts
As I wrap up this post, I can’t help but reflect on the incredible conversation I had with Amanda. My time spent learning about their mission, events, and storefront has left me proud to support Cape Cod when I visit each year. By learning about this nonprofit, now I also know how I can support the Cape during the rest of the year.
The dedication of Love Live Local to supporting local businesses, fostering community, and preserving the unique charm of the Cape has truly touched my heart. It’s through organizations like Love Live Local that we can make a tangible impact on our communities. No matter where you are from, you can choose to support small businesses and shop locally in your area!
To share your favorite local businesses in your area, drop a comment so we can create a little network and support each other 🙂
Until next time,
Cassie
Photo Credits: Love Live Local Facebook
