Introduction
BlueStar’s goal is to create meaningful and competitive employment opportunities for people with disabilities through ethical electronics recycling. Over the past thirteen years, Blue Star Recyclers has strived to fulfill this mission and has made a significant triple-bottom-line impact. As of 2022, BlueStar has created permanent and competitive jobs for over 100 adults with disabilities, both directly and indirectly. They have also recycled over 30 million pounds of electronics, generating over $20M in earned income and $20M in taxpayer savings and positive economic impact.
Challenge
Startup businesses are often faced with challenges, and with BlueStar’s lofty mission, theirs was no different. In 2009, as an emerging NFP, they sought funding, they struggled to build a support network, they were navigating the legal and regulatory requirements for disabled workers, they had to engage and retain significant donors, and create a work environment that was suited to their team and mission. This was all to be accomplished on a shoestring budget and within a very short timeframe.
Solution
Through my business, 5280 Creative Group, I was able to help the team at BlueStar develop a welcoming and consistent brand as the foundation of their business and terrific mission. Together, we wrapped a fleet of delivery trucks and recycle bins that also worked as rolling billboards. We developed and promoted monthly recycling events to provide literal tons of waste to be recycled. We created PR campaigns involving Denver’s Mayor to spread the positive word. We developed a website and digital campaigns to attract donors through environmentally responsible email and social media – even before it was cool! Together, we continued our mission as we collaborated with other facilities in Colorado and eventually spread this winning brand and proven model around the country.
Conclusion
BlueStar has given competitive employment to more than 100 adults with disabilities and have, in turn, experienced countless efficiencies and return on their efforts.
BlueStar has created 6 workforce development locations around the US (and growing) employing their proven successful model.
And BlueStar has ethically recycled more than 30 million pounds of e-waste to date, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and diverting hazardous waste from landfills.
I am truly blessed and inspired to have been able to work with such a wonderful organization from its very beginning! Check their website here.