In the early 2000s, Lance Armstrong started something that no one knew would become an overnight sensation. The former cyclist, started the Lance Armstrong Foundation for cancer survivors and with it, he began selling bright yellow silicone wristbands with the word Live strong on it for one dollar apiece. Almost overnight, the foundation became a huge success because everyone seemed to want one of these bracelets and they quickly sold out across the nation. This is how the silicone bracelet phenomenon began. People who wanted support for other causes realized selling these items with their slogans written on them were a quick and easy way to make a lot of money for their foundation and raise awareness for the cause at the same time. Today, there are numerous organizations who sell items just like the ones Lance Armstrong had.
Wearing a pink band around your wrist in October usually means you have given money towards breast cancer research or you just want to help raise awareness of the situation. These came out not too long after Lance Armstrong came out with the Lives strong bands. They were sold in department stores and boutiques all over the country and they were also extremely popular. Donations for breast cancer research increased dramatically and now there is more support than ever before to help find a cure.
A few years ago, European soccer clubs came up with a band that says "Stand Up Speak Up" which indicates fans who want to help put an end racism in Europe. The campaign helped raise awareness of the issue, which otherwise may have gone unnoticed, as studies illustrated before the rubber wristbands, people really did not know the extent of the racism problem in European soccer. The campaign partnered with a major sportswear manufacturer and famous European soccer stars to promote the black and white band, which signifies unity between Whites and Blacks.
The "One" campaign founders also began making their own rubber wristlets with the word "One" written on it with a simple white color. This cause is meant to help raise awareness and get people to join the fight against AIDS and global poverty. By buying the rubber bands individuals have donated to the cause and by wearing the item, they are raising awareness of the issue. These, like the Lives strong bands, are sold for one dollar a piece. The founders of this campaign also partnered with famous music bands and actors to help promote the cause and encourage others to join the battle.
Since the Live strong bands in the early 2000s, nearly every major campaign has sold bands to go with the campaign. This cheap, easy to make product can really help increase donations and it helps spread the word of the campaign. It is interesting to think that when Lance Armstrong first thought about selling rubber bracelets, he probably had no idea that he would change the way global causes make money and how they raise awareness around the world.
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