to connect with a broader audience, and wanted to create an organization that could connect with people from every walk of life. In addition, he wanted to employ the power of music and art to inspire people, rather than focusing strictly on money as he had seen others do. Ritz wanted an organization that would bridge the gap between environmental causes and everyday people, hoping to use creativity to spark an interest in the issues and inspire action. The early organization partnered with clothing companies and designers to re-purpose old clothing into designer outfits. Although that particular program is now only one of many, the spirit of using creativity to encourage and even glamorize sustainable living remains a foundation of the organization. Early partner companies included Diesel, Levi's, Miss Sixty, and American Apparel. Soon, Ritz was traveling to events to install environmentally-aware performance art like the Jiffy Pop tree at Coachella, and by the summer of 2009, Global Inheritance was able to hire two paid employees for the first time. Today the organization is run by a small staff and a cadre of interns and volunteers. Global Inheritance now runs approximately 25-30 programs a year for a variety of festivals, events, and companies. References External links Global Inheritance Official Site Globalism Non-profit organizations based in Los Angeles