Every time you lather up, you could be making a significant impact in the lives of others.
Chelcee Cheers, owner and maker of Lathermore Soap Company, has partnered with The Iowa Coalition Against Domestic Abuse in an effort to bring awareness and support to its mission.
“I chose to work with the Iowa Coalition Against Domestic Violence (ICADV) for a variety of reasons, but most importantly I believe in doing what I can, regardless of how small the act, to help empower other women,” said Cheers. “Statistically, women and children are those most affected by domestic violence, and I think it is critical to support the victims, and survivors, in any way possible.”
Cheers, who started creating hand-crafted, environmentally friendly, vegan skincare products in 2015, has formulated a bar of soap to support the mission of the ICADV, which seeks to engage all people in a movement to change the social and political systems that perpetuate violence against women.
This mission of the ICADV appealed to Cheers because of the financial resources they provide victims to empower themselves.
“One of the most significant reasons those in abusive situations are unable to escape is due to a lack of financial resources. ICADV is working to lessen the tension of these struggles through their Alice Barton Scholarship Program, which assists survivors of domestic violence to obtain an education in order to better provide for themselves and their families,” said Cheers.
Cheers said she appreciates when an organization understands the importance of working proactively toward a solution versus reacting to an issue.
“In essence, the ICADV is actively addressing the issues hindering people from being able to leave abusive situations, and are providing programs and assistance to the community once those who have escaped as they begin the next chapters of their lives,” said Cheers.
All proceeds from the sales of her black lavender soap will directly support victims of domestic violence across the state.
“This soap truly is a labor of love,” said Cheers.
The black lavender soap consists of a concoction of coconut oil infused with organic rose buds, a process which takes four hours before making its way into the soap batter. Cheers said she then adds activated coconut shell charcoal powder and bentonite clay, both for their purification properties and the beautiful black color they lend to the soap. Her final step is adding a custom blend of skin-supporting essential oils – lavender, geranium and cedar wood.
“Together they give the soap a wonderfully unique, sweet and woodsy aroma. Like all of our soaps, this particular recipe was designed to clean, moisturize, and the essential oil blend is intended to encourage the user to relax,” said Cheers.
Cheers said she pitched the idea to ICADV’s public relations representative and they were very receptive to a partnership.
“I look forward to seeing what the partnership between Lathermore Soap Company and the Iowa Coalition Against Domestic Violence will be able to accomplish as we move forward,” said Cheers.
Cheers said the response from customers has been amazing.
“Currently, we are accepting pre-orders for our first batch of Black Lavender Soap which will be shipped and delivered on Wednesday, Nov. 7,” said Cheers. “The second batch will be available before Thanksgiving.”
Lathermore Soap Company’s black lavender bar soap is available at lathermore.com, in store at its weekly pop-up shop, 615 S. Chestnut St., or at upcoming holiday markets. For more information, visit lathermore.com.
