1906 Wants You to Shop Local: an Interview with Jim Freelend

Local edible company 1906 have been a part of the Colorado and Aurora communities for years now, and they’ve given back more than most. Even in times of financial uncertainty, they hold their community partnerships close and look for new ways to reach the community when they have the chance. We spoke with Jim Freelend, director of retail development, about supporting local business and keeping the Pride spirit alive.

Why is having partner relationships in Aurora important to 1906?
We have some great partners in Aurora, Terrapin Care Station, Native Roots, Lightshade, and these partners have been not only great to us, but also to the LGBTQ community. Aurora is definitely a vital partnership.

Why should we be supporting local and small business right now, and how can we show support?
I think one of the biggest challenges we’ve seen is having experience-based products. In the past, people would have tourists coming through their stores in Colorado, and that has really changed based on how travel has changed this year and how far people are traveling from home.

But, we’ve also seen more support from the local customer, and some of that comes from working from home. Our new Genius formula has been kind of a lifesaver for a lot of people who need help focusing; it’s a low-dose option that is really designed around cognitive focus. We’re really grateful for the support we’ve seen from the community.

How has 1906 been a partner to the community?
The community is an integral part of what we do; we have queer people represented at all levels within our company, from executive management to sales and marketing and the people who work in production. So, we’re really focused on having an inclusive environment and creating a brand identity that is welcoming to all. It’s been so gratifying to partner with the community, and we always put our whole heart into it.

What have you been doing this year to stay in the Pride spirit?
We did a collaboration to give back to The Center earlier this summer; people were invited to tag us in their social posts. It was a great way to encourage personal celebrations and also give back to an organization that is really vital to the Colorado community.

Personally, I have had the opportunity to think about giving to nonprofits that have supported the community; I’ve kind of traded my spending, since I obviously haven’t been going out to dinner, shows, or bars, and really made a conscious effort to devote some of that money to give back to the community. I think right now, it’s important that we support one another and make sure that there are resources for people within our community that need help.

How have you been celebrating the season?
I’ve just been really strengthening relationships with the people that are close to me, the people within my bubble. We’re careful and respectful of each other’s space and want to make sure that we’re treating each other with the utmost care to keep everyone safe and healthy.

Learn more at 1906newhighs.com.

Photo provided by 1906