FORT MYERS, Fla.-- A Fort Myers couple created a new business that combines everyday fundraising with the eco-product trend.
As parents themselves, the Fous couple decided they were tired of the same old fundraisers.
"To raise money for school, kids sell popcorn or candles, and wrapping paper," said Creative Director Christopher Fous. "But we came up with the idea for selling eco-friendly products."
Together they combined their experience as a teacher and eco-product designer to create ecoLife Fundraising.
The site makes fundraising as simple as online shopping.
"So each kids gets their own URL and their parents can share that on social media," said Christopher. "And everything purchased through that URL goes to that kid and to that kid's school"
The couple said the site isn't limited to schools because it can be used by any organization.
They even created a separate site called Shop ecoLife for any consumer who just wants to shop greener, and all of the products are carefully handpicked.
"Piggy Paint which is one of our products has no chemicals," said Founder Danielle Fous. "It won't peel off or chip, and our girls love it."
Some of the products are even Christopher's own design like WooBamboo.
"The toothbrushes are made from bamboo, and the floss is made from silk," said Christopher. "And all of our stuff we call it very eco-awesome."
The couple said they already have reservations for next school year, and that includes Crestwell School in Fort Myers where Danielle currently teaches.
"It's just great that our principal is backing us up," said Danielle. "It's just such a great concept and we are so passionate about it."
The couple has four little ones at home, and they said their kids are a constant reminder of why their message is so important.
"We don't own this world, we are borrowing it from our kids," said Christopher. "We have to give it back to them someday and I'd rather be a part of the solution and not the problem."
