Today we’d like to introduce you to Britty Hamby.
Britty, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
We started ATX Vegans a few years ago, when we noticed despite their being small support networks and recurring potlucks, there were no “veg” nonprofits that served the whole population of Austin, including those who weren’t vegan or were new to veganism. Over time, we broadened our programming to include free cooking classes, discounted and free tickets to those in need and community events for people of color. With the help of business partners and sponsors, our network is bigger than ever. Planted started out as a side project while I was working on ATX Vegans, and I integrated it into our programming. We were trying to figure out a way to ethically have events at restaurants where animal products were served. So, I asked local business owners to go vegan for the night, just to accommodate us. Not only were the restaurants busier than ever on our Planted Nights, but our community gathered to support the businesses long after the events. Last year, I expanded Planted’s programming and now we’re in several states in the US and have helped three businesses go vegan forever with our programming.
Has it been a smooth road?
The support that our organization has received has been outstanding. Not only from the community but from local businesses and media as well. Yes, sometimes we have to overcome hurdles: for a while, business owners wanted to partner with us but didn’t realize we were a nonprofit and needed funding. We were expected to work for free, and now, for the most part, everyone understands our mission and needs. With Planted, our main struggle has been convincing restaurants in new cities that our programming is something that will benefit them. In Austin, small businesses and the community are unrelenting in their enthusiasm for our events, but it’s hard to show those in new markets how it will benefit their city until the actual event itself. After they see the immediate change, it’s smooth sailing!
So, as you know, we’re impressed with ATX Vegans and Planted – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of and what sets you apart from others.
ATX Vegans is a nonprofit serving Austin and surrounding cities. We throw community events, fundraisers and free cooking classes. I am its Executive Director, so I plan events, market within the city of Austin, build partnership programming and serve as a liaison for a community-wide conversation on veganism.
Planted is a company that helps businesses all over the country incorporate more vegan and plant-based options onto their menu, market to the vegan community and/or go all vegan. We bring small businesses and communities together in mutual support. I am its CEO, so I coordinate with businesses and community leaders to throw great events that grow support within the city.
With both organizations, I’m most proud of our ability to mobilize whole communities to support good causes, in a quick amount of time. What we do that others don’t, is stand by our ethics. We don’t just work with anyone, and those we choose to work with are those who have the ability and interest in genuinely growing the movement – not just make money.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
I love that Dallas is a diverse city with a growing interest in vegan cuisine. Its community celebrates small businesses and we can’t wait to launch Planted here.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.plantedsociety.com
- Email: britty@plantedsociety.com
- Instagram: @plantedsociety
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/plantedsociety
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