Jelt, the social enterprise that makes retro-inspired, multi-functional belts, has just announced that it has become a Certified B Corporation. The company underwent a rigorous evaluation process issued by B Lab to receive the certification, which ensured it meets the highest standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability to function as a new kind of company-one that uses the power of business to solve social and environmental problems.

 

Jelt incorporates several programs beneficial to social and environmental issues into their business model, all of which contribute significantly to their B Corps status. The belts, which are elastic with a no-show plastic buckle, are made from 100% recycled water bottles, which lowers the footprint of their environmental impact. They are also manufactured in the United States via the Montana Correctional Enterprise Program. This voluntary and progressive program allows women incarcerated at the Montana Women's Prison to apply, interview, and be trained in manufacturing the belts. They receive legitimate wages that they can then save towards restitution, child support, or put into a savings account to save for their release. This program helps the women develop a strong work ethic, learn new job skills, and helps increase their confidence, making them more marketable employees upon their release.  It has also been proven to reduce recidivism. Finally, Jelt donates a portion of every sale to non-profit programs that support veterans, children, and the environment. Current partners include Warriors and Quiet Water Foundation, THRIVE, and 1% For the Planet.

 

"Jelt was created to give back to our communities in a multitude of ways and we've worked very hard to make sure that each part of our company is making a positive impact," says founder Jennifer Perry. "This certification validates that we're doing just that, and in a manner that's best for the world. We're incredibly honored to be a Certified B Corporation, and inspired to keep growing our impact."

 

Jelt joins over 800 Certified B Corporations from more than 60 industries in 28 countries that share a unifying goal: to redefine success in business. Performance standards of Certified B Corps are comprehensive and transparent and measure a company's impact on all of its stakeholders. They're legally required to consider the impact not only on their shareholders, but also their workers, suppliers, community, consumers, and the environment. Jelt celebrates this coveted status as it celebrates its fourth anniversary, amplifying each of these milestones for the company.

 

For more information on Jelt, visit www.jeltbelt.com. Follow on Facebook @JeltBelt or on Instagram @JeltBelt.