For Pam Baer, it doesn’t get any better than this. As an executive board member of San Francisco General Hospital, an adviser to several other nonprofits and (one of her most high-profile roles) the wife of San Francisco Giants President Larry Baer, she’s attended her share of chic soirees and charitable events. Now she’s taken two of her passions—fashion and philanthropy—and started her own company to give back on a global level.
For Goodness Sake, whose name was inspired by Baer’s grandmother’s favorite saying, “For goodness sake, do something,” supports a variety of nonprofits (including health, environmental and educational initiatives) by connecting them with stylish, socially responsible brands and likeminded consumers. Through exclusive collaborations with select designers, the company offers a carefully curated, constantly evolving collection of private-label and custom goods, including women’s and men’s accessories, home décor and gifts. The products are sold both online at Forgoodsake.org and through a sleek, eco-friendly mobile gallery. The shopping is fun and interactive. The products are modern and accessible. And the best part? At least 25 percent of net proceeds from all sales go directly to the charities the organization serves.
Currently, For Goodness Sake works with nonprofits serving the San Francisco Bay Area, including SF General and Glide Memorial Church, but Baer is branching out nationally this year. Considering her impressive credentials, which include 25-plus years of direct marketing experience for Fortune 500 companies, a hefty Rolodex and a seemingly boundless supply of energy—the rollout should be a no-brainer.
Here, Baer talks to Red Typewriter about the benefits of a do-good attitude, the perks of peddling fashion from a high-tech trailer, and juggling it all with a busy family life (she has four kids!).
RT: Where did you get the inspiration for your new company?
PB: My strong desire for service and to give back was very much ingrained in my upbringing. I was taught that we all have an obligation to give back and make the world a better place. This continues to play an important role in how I live my life and raise my children. As a family, we work closely with a number of charities in our hometown of San Francisco and across the country. For Goodness Sake is inspired by my grandmother’s favorite saying, “For goodness sake, do something.” Over the years, I have been fortunate to sit by my husband through many baseball games and a number of World Series Championships with the San Francisco Giants, and from this, I’ve had the unique opportunity to be exposed to many inspiring charities and people who want to give back. These experiences happen to fall in line with two of my favorite passions, giving back and connecting people with philanthropies with purpose, and continue to have an impact on who I am.
RT: How do you select the products for your line?
PB: My team and I look for innovative, beautiful products in all corners of the world, from a local artisan in Rwanda to an up-and-coming designer in San Francisco. I’m always looking for pieces that are well-designed and made with quality materials, whether it’s a custom clutch or a handmade bar tray. I’m especially drawn to the stories behind the products, whether it’s custom designed to portray our vision and values, or a piece that comes from a company that’s already aligned with what we stand for. We want to support companies that are already giving back by creating brand awareness through the For Goodness Sake collection, and promoting artisans and designers who are making beautiful, thoughtful, quality goods. It’s our way of coming full circle: non-profits supporting artisans, creating awareness around all the beautiful products people are making, and highlighting what our nonprofit partners are raising money for.
For Goodness Sake peddles its chic wares both online and through this sleek, eco-friendly mobile gallery.
RT: There are so many philanthropies out there. How is FGS unique?
PB: For Goodness Sake is building a socially minded community around our lifestyle brand, which is built on the foundation of conscious consumerism. Through our retail platform, we are connecting brands, consumers and nonprofits in a progressive way. We do this by raising awareness and connecting people with charitable causes through our e-commerce site and mobile pop-up gallery, which serves as an important launch pad for community engagement, providing an important venue where individuals can gather to share ideas. This is the right distribution channel for us, as we travel to different communities, share our mission and empower individuals to take action and become change makers. Another way we are unique is that for each of our cause partners, we curate a discerning collection. Our products feature the For Goodness Sake private label as well as collaborative custom-made goods with select designers. We donate a minimum of 25 percent of net proceeds to our cause partners, and with each purchase, we enable people to seamlessly give back while feeling good about their purchase.
RT: How has your family gotten involved in this endeavor?
PB: My family inspires me every day, and they have been actively involved in this amazing journey. From a company standpoint, my daughter, who is a budding fashion designer, designed our hair ties for launch, and my three sons love the dapper set that includes a bow tie, pocket square and dress socks. Giving back as a family has always been a priority. This is another way for us to contribute together.
Baer’s mantra, on one of her women’s fashion accessories
RT: What would you say to other women who feel the need to give back to their communities in a bigger way?
PB: My advice is to follow your passions. All of us have goodness in our hearts and can become change makers. Finding your role and how to best channel your energy starts by having passion behind your mission. Also, don’t be afraid to ask the people you know for help. When I launched For Goodness Sake, I reached out to friends and colleagues. Their generosity came in many forms, from donating products and services to their personal time and guidance, and I am incredibly grateful for the support they provided.
