SocialOffset

SocialOffset is a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation (EIN secured; IRS confirmation pending) created to provide event organizers and their attendees with a tool to offset the economic impact of their event or stay in a city where local legislation and laws are not in alignment with their individual values. The “offset” is realized when an attendee elects to make a donation to a recommended list of local charities and/or organizations that support those impacted by particular laws that may be in conflict with the attendee’s personal values. (This is similar to a carbon offset.) The two guiding principles of SocialOffset include: 1) We validate and align with attendees’ discomfort and potential unwillingness to visit a city where the state has laws that go against attendees’ core values. 2) We do not support boycotting cities based on the laws passed by their states. o Boycotts are bad for America because it will further divide the country. o Boycotts are bad for destinations because individuals (many from marginalized groups) who work in related industries (e.g., hospitality) will be negatively impacted. o Boycotts are bad for event planners because site selection will become near impossible to manage as different political and social justice issues attract and repel different audiences. Given these guiding principles, SocialOffset’s sole intent is to raise money for local charities whose missions align with attendees’ core values. These values may be related to reproductive healthcare, anti-racism, lgbtq+ rights, hunger, homelessness, environmental, etc. SocialOffset allows organizations and individuals to continue to contribute to local economies while also providing direct support to those who live in those localities, with no threat to any individual’s employment.