By: Emma Cannon

This Giving Tuesday, something extraordinary happened at the I Support the Girls DC warehouse—a half-joke turned into a groundbreaking event! The idea sprouted during a September strategic planning session and blossomed into a full-blown, 24-hour “Padlock-In” live stream, an event we’ll never forget.

The Birth of the Pad-Lock-In

What started as a playful suggestion quickly gained momentum as a way to engage our community for Giving Tuesday. Our goal was to highlight the urgent need for menstrual products and bras, while also bringing some fun and direct engagement to our supporters. Daniella, our Digital Engagement Coordinator, Shariah, our Outreach & Volunteer Coordinator, and myself, Emma Cannon, the Programs and Corporate Partnerships Coordinator at ISTG, decided to turn this idea into reality.

Shariah (left) and Daniella (right) at the beginning of the stream

A Day (and Night!) at the Warehouse

We spent 24 hours in our DC warehouse from sunrise to sunset, engaging with our audience through Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook. We shared stories, discussed the impact of ISTG, and showcased the inner workings of our operations. It was a marathon of sharing, caring, and laughing—proving that making a difference can be a blast!

The 2024 Giving Tuesday schedule

Shoutout to Our Amazing Sponsors

This event couldn’t have been possible without the incredible support of our sponsors, who believe in our mission and continuously help us push forward. A huge thank you to:

  • ThirdLove
  • LOLA
  • Parade
  • Victoria’s Secret
  • Thrive Causemetics
  • Rael
  • Grandma’s Ice Cream & Waffles
  • THB
  • The Bean Bag Deli & Catering

These companies provided financial backing and contributed products and food to keep us going through the 24-hour live stream. Their participation was instrumental in amplifying our message and engaging with a broader audience.

Dana (left) had an eyeshadow shade named after her with Thrive Causemetics. Emma and Dana (right) play a period product stacking game with products donated by LOLA.

The Impact Goes Beyond One Day

The Pad-Lock-In was more than just a live stream; it demonstrated community and commitment. Throughout the 24 hours, we connected with viewers, shared educational content, and received incredible support to help us continue providing essential items to those in need.

The engagement from the livestream has set new benchmarks for us, and we are incredibly thankful to everyone who tuned in, commented, shared, and donated. Your involvement makes a real difference in the lives of individuals across the globe.

Our fundraising tracker from the livestream – we blew away our goal!

Looking Forward

As we reflect on the success of our first-ever Padlock-In, we’re already buzzing with ideas for next year. So, stay tuned, and remember, every contribution helps us lock in support and unlock potential for people who rely on us daily.

Thank you again to our sponsors, team, and everyone who joined us online. Here’s to more innovative fundraising and opportunities to support menstrual equity worldwide!