SustainABLE Start
About the Company
SustainABLE Start was a nonprofit organization under 501(c)(3) status, dedicated to providing essential hygiene kits to homeless individuals in New York City. The initiative was uniquely managed by high school students, fostering youth leadership while addressing a pressing social need. Over its operation, the organization delivered its kits across all five boroughs of NYC, adapting to meet the needs of its clients through feedback and resource partnerships.
Each kit included carefully selected items like toothbrushes, toothpaste, socks, and feminine hygiene products, with a strong emphasis on eco-friendliness. SustainABLE Start operated with a lean structure, keeping production costs as low as $3–4 per kit while focusing 100% of donations on its mission.
Despite its success, the nonprofit closed in 2024 due to financial and logistical challenges. However, it left a legacy of empowering youth and providing valuable community support.
Idea Behind Company
The inspiration for SustainABLE Start came in 2019 when Chloe encountered a homeless man who, despite his struggles, helped her navigate the streets at night. This experience highlighted the vulnerability and generosity of individuals facing homelessness, motivating Chloe to take action.
She began by carrying small essentials like snacks and toiletries to share with those in need. Observing the frequency of homelessness in NYC and the lack of access to basic hygiene products, she identified a critical gap that needed addressing. Chloe envisioned creating a scalable initiative to meet this widespread need, setting her sights on a nonprofit model to ensure a sustained and focused effort.
With a goal of reaching 60,000 homeless New Yorkers, Chloe conceptualized a high-impact, youth-led organization that combined practicality with compassion. The idea evolved into a comprehensive approach to helping the homeless while empowering young people to take active roles in their communities.
Creating the Company
Chloe launched SustainABLE Start in early 2020, initially designing winter kits with gloves and beanies. Realizing hygiene products had year-round importance, she shifted focus after consulting with clients at shelters. The first kits, distributed in March 2020, included basic items but quickly expanded to accommodate client feedback.
The organization relied on grassroots fundraising through Chloe’s personal networks, leveraging social media platforms to generate donations. As the nonprofit grew, Chloe assembled a team of high school volunteers to manage various aspects, from financials to social media. To ensure professionalism, she also curated a board of advisors specializing in fields like sustainable development and data analytics.
This structure allowed SustainABLE Start to function as a training ground for youth, providing real-world business experience. Chloe’s ability to delegate and foster a collaborative environment proved instrumental in the nonprofit’s efficiency and growth.
Launching the Business
SustainABLE Start’s launch was marked by rapid growth, with thousands of dollars in donations pouring in during its first few weeks. Chloe focused on building long-term partnerships with companies to maintain momentum, securing support from brands like Victoria’s Secret and Bombas.
Managing a team of teenagers presented challenges, but Chloe embraced it as an opportunity to empower her peers. Through effective delegation and mentorship, the team became more specialized and efficient, elevating the nonprofit’s operations. Social media played a crucial role in brand visibility, with platforms like Instagram used to attract volunteers and highlight the impact of their work.
Key milestones included transitioning from one-time donations to sustainable partnerships and holding large-scale distribution events. The organization thrived on adaptability, constantly refining its processes based on feedback and available resources.
Earnings
SustainABLE Start achieved remarkable financial efficiency, bringing production costs to as low as $3–4 per kit while delivering $380,000 worth of products over 10 months. Revenue initially stemmed from personal donations, but long-term partnerships with eco-conscious companies became its main funding source.
Despite its lean operating model, overhead costs like storage and fees were often covered by Chloe and her family, reflecting the challenges of running a nonprofit. By 2021, the organization aimed to make kits entirely through partnerships, reducing reliance on cash donations.
Though the nonprofit eventually ceased operations, its financial model demonstrated how strategic partnerships and resourcefulness could amplify the impact of limited funds. SustainABLE Start’s journey offers insights into the challenges and opportunities of running a youth-led social enterprise.
