At Cherry Republic, our mission statement — Life, Liberty, Beaches & Pie — isn’t just a catchy phrase. It’s our compass. And while we’re big fans of all four, “Pie” might just be our favorite. To us, Pie is more than something you eat warm with a dollop of ice cream (though we highly recommend that). It’s our symbol of generosity and the secret ingredient behind everything we do.
With the help of our incredible customers, this spirit of giving has baked up something amazing: over the past 30 years, we’ve shared more than $4 million in grants to promote clean energy initiatives, preserve precious farmland, spruce up outdoor recreational spaces, and keep our Michigan communities thriving. In other words, we’re slicing up the goodness and serving it all around.
A Slice For Farmers
Every time you shop in our stores, we add a tiny 1% “slice” to your purchase, usually about 30 cents per transaction. This duty goes straight to protecting Northern Michigan farmland and supporting small farms. Think of it as planting seeds for the future every time you buy cherries today.
A New Chapter in Our Giving Tradition
For over three decades, Cherry Republic's December giving has been a cherished tradition in our communities. While many know us for our "31 Days of Giving" campaign, we've thoughtfully evolved this practice to better serve our mission. In 2024, we chose a quieter approach to our December giving, focusing on deep impact rather than daily announcements.
We remain steadfast in our commitment to supporting local non-profits that enhance the vitality of our communities. We're proud to share that in 2024 we distributed over $300,000 to organizations making a meaningful difference. From environmental conservation and clean energy initiatives to community support services and educational programs, our giving continues to reflect our core values.
Our focus has sharpened over the years, particularly toward addressing climate change and supporting sustainability. We've prioritized organizations promoting renewable energy solutions, from local farmers implementing solar and wind power to advocacy groups championing environmental protection. While our giving method may have evolved, our dedication to fostering positive change in our communities remains stronger than ever.
This shift represents a step forward in our philanthropic journey – one that emphasizes lasting impact over ceremony, while honoring the same spirit of generosity that has guided us since 1989. Our recipe has changed a little, but the flavor is the same: generosity, community, and a heaping scoop of care for the place we call home.
