Celebrating Pride Month: How Stash Ventures Honors the LGBTQ+ Community

At Stash Ventures, inclusivity is not just a buzzword; it is deeply ingrained in our core values. As a company, Stash Ventures lives by the five promises of care, connect, be authentic, inspire, and drive the business. We encourage our leaders and employees to embody these promises and create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all. 

Our CEO and co-owner, Scott Moorehead, encourages employees to embrace their unique identities and celebrates their individuality. Moorehead’s mantra of “be your own kind of weird” resonated deeply within our company culture, promoting self-expression, and acceptance. 

By actively advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, we hope to inspire other companies to follow suit. We understand that our influence extends beyond our immediate community, and we are committed to leveraging that influence to promote positive change. Through our actions and initiatives, we aim to connect with the communities in which we do business in, demonstrating our care for our LGBTQ+ employees, friends, and allies.

High Minded packaging supervisor, Jennifer James (JJ,) lives by the five promises and has shared how Pride is more than just celebrating the LGBTQ+ community. “Time is all we have, and we should make the most of it. Love is the most powerful emotion and should be shared. I truly believe in that. Kindness doesn’t take but a little effort but has such a big impact.” - JJ

Timber Cannabis Co. is proud to partner with various LGBTQ+ organizations in Michigan, forging meaningful connections beyond monetary donations.  We encourage all our Timber locations and employees to establish true partnerships with their nonprofits by volunteering their time and talents.  Through these partnerships, we aim to contribute to the betterment of the LGBTQ+ community in a tangible and impactful way.

In Muskegon, Timber Cannabis Co. proudly donated to Muskegon Pride, an organization dedicated to celebrating, supporting, and advocating for the local LGBTQ+ community.   Our team had the privilege of participating in Muskegon Pride Fest on June 3rd where they immersed themselves in the festivities and showed their unwavering support. 

Similarly, our Big Rapids location extended its support to Pride Big Rapids.  Through a donation, they contributed to the organization’s efforts in organizing an event that celebrated the diversity and achievements of the LGBTQ+ community.  The General Manager attended multiple board meetings for Pride Big Rapids to show our support and contribute to the Pride event.  The team of Big Rapids actively participated in the Pride Fest on June 25th standing shoulder to shoulder with the community and spreading messages of love and acceptance. 

In Three Rivers, our Timber location donated to Three Rivers Pride and had the opportunity to actively participate in the city’s first ever Pride event on June 24th.  Timber’s groundbreaking contribution and collaboration allowed them to engage directly with the local LGBTQ+ community, forge connection, and show their commitment to inclusion. 

Allegan chose to support Out on the Lakeshore, an organization that champions LGBTQ+ rights and hosts Allegan’s upcoming Pride event on August 4th & 5th this year. 

Sturgis Timber Cannabis Co. took a unique approach by donating to the St. Joseph County Co-Op, a nonprofit that assists with mental health and the disabled, by aiding in the launch of a first of its kind LGBTQ+ mental healthy and advocacy facility called the Pride Room in downtown Sturgis.  The Pride room serves as a safe space for resources, mental health support, educational programs, and shows how to be an ally. 

The impact of all these donations extends beyond financial contributions.  Each donation is directed towards various aspects of LGBTQ+ causes, with a particular focus on advocacy programs.  The funds donated also support essential initiatives such as safe sex education, mental health programs, public education, and providing LGBTQ+ resources like appropriate clothing, food, health care, and shelter to those in need. 

One of the highlights of our Pride Month celebration was the annual Pride-themed bundle sold at our Timber Cannabis Co. locations.  This specifically curated bundle featured a variety of products, including High Minded flower, Timber gummies, infused pre-roll, and a fun color changing cup, all at a discounted price.  For each Pride bundle sold, a portion of the proceeds was donated to the local LGBTQ+ nonprofit that each store supports.  We are proud to share that as a company, we sold a remarkable 375 Pride bundles, making a significant contribution to our partnered organizations. 

Amplifying LGBTQ+ voices is another essential aspect of our commitment to advocacy.  Timber Cannabis Co. utilizes its platform and relationships with nonprofits to raise awareness and educate others about the challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community.  One notable collaboration was with the educational video series called “More Than a Statistic,” produced by the non-profit organization More Than a Phone.  This series aimed to raise awareness and educate viewers about terminology & respect, bullying, gender diversity, interpersonal violence and how to be an ally to the LGBTQ+ community.

As part of our collaboration with More Than a Statistic, the Muskegon Pride group chose to incorporate the video series into their meetings.  Each gathering featured one video from the 5-part series, followed by discussions guided by thought-provoking questions.  This initiative can foster a deeper understanding of the LGBTQ+ community’s experiences and provide a platform for open dialogue and learning.  

Furthermore, the St. Joe County Co-Op recognized the value of the More Than a Statistic Video series and have asked their team to watch the video series as a training tool.  This decision reflects their commitment to creating a more understanding and compassionate environment.

As Pride Month has come to a close, our commitment to LGBTQ+ advocacy and inclusivity remains steadfast.  At Stash Ventures, we understand that supporting the LGBTQ+ community goes beyond lip service – it requires action, partnerships, and dedication.  We will continue to stand as allies, celebrate diversity, and create a safe and inclusive space for all.  Lighting up with pride means embracing the richness of our differences and working together to build a more inclusive future.  Together, let us illuminate the path towards equality and acceptance for everyone.  Stay tuned for our next LGBTQ+ centered project launching January 1st, 2024!