Square Roots Community Initiative is our sustainable model for financial giving. Its 501(c)(4) model allows us to donate 100% of the profits from our local businesses like The Creamery and Artelo to our non-profits and other community partners that are helping to ignite systemic change. SRCI was started with a generous contribution from the Bontrager family in 2019. 

Our Contributions in Context

THE BOROUGH OF KENNETT SQUARE

SRCI provided financial assistance for grants consultants who secured a $2m police station grant.

ANSON B. NIXON PARK

SRCI provided financial assistance for grants consultants to advance the park’s long-term strategic vision.

BRANDYWINE RED CLAY ALLIANCE

SRCI provided financial assistance to support stream bank restoration near public trails.

FAMILY PROMISE OF SOUTHERN CHESTER COUNTY

SRCI provided financial assistance to house local families experiencing homelessness.

Since 2022...

SRCI has made $545,000+ in grants to local organizations outside of Square Roots Collective to further collective community thriving.

Here’s a peek at how donations have helped public infrastructure and services:

Any Questions?

If you’re wondering what makes our model effective and whether it’s too good to be true (all fair considerations), here are some commonly asked questions and our answers. 

  • Yes! After being taxed, these businesses donate their profits to SRCI, the 501(c)(4) that donates 100% of its funds to community initiatives. To be clear, SRCI does not have any beneficial owners. Rather it has a board of directors tasked with stewarding and advancing SRCI’s community thriving mission.

  • The board of directors includes: Stephanie Almanza, Luke Zubrod, Josh Yates. Stephanie and Luke are part of the leadership team at Square Roots Collective and live locally. Josh is an expert in community development. He lives in Nashville, where he serves as Executive Director of Belmont Innovation Labs and is CEO of Thriving Cities Group. While some members of the board are employed by Square Roots Collective, SRCI board members serve the board on a volunteer basis.

  • We believe in the power of collaboration to address the systemic challenges facing our communities. Our donations through SRCI are focused on supporting organizations that are actively partnering to advance a shared vision of community thriving. We're eager to learn how we can work together on projects that advance causes of mutual concern.

  • At this time, we do not have a formal grant application process.

  • While we generally do not participate directly in non-profit capital campaigns, we recognize how important those types of campaigns are to providing vital services.

  • No, this only represents a portion of our support for non-profits, community programs, and other early-stage initiatives intended to enrich community life in our region.

  • We’ve got a full explanation and more details on our organization here. :)