Focus requests on clear youth impact, concise documentation, and mutually beneficial publicity to increase the likelihood of support.
Aeropostale does not have a public-facing online donation request form for individual events or small non-profits. Instead, they centralize their giving through long-term partnerships with major national and global organizations Global Citizen 🤝 Primary Philanthropic Partners
If you are looking to understand where Aeropostale’s charitable resources go, they primarily work with: Delivering Good:
A 501(c)(3) that distributes new clothes to people in need; Aeropostale has donated over $8 million in merchandise samples since 2007. The JED Foundation:
Aeropostale partners with JED to provide mental health resources for teens and young adults. Global Citizen:
A recent partnership featuring "Take Action" apparel collections aimed at empowering youth to fight extreme poverty and protect the planet. Teens for Jeans:
Traditionally one of their most famous campaigns, where stores collected gently used denim to donate to local homeless shelters. Global Citizen 💡 How to Get Help for Your Cause
Since there is no direct "Request" button on their website, try these alternative routes: 1. Contact Local Store Management
Individual store managers sometimes have the autonomy to support hyper-local events with small merchandise donations or "denim drives." Visit in person during a weekday morning (when it's quiet). A formal letter on your non-profit’s letterhead and your 501(c)(3) tax ID number 2. Reach Out to SPARC Group LLC Aeropostale is managed by SPARC Group LLC
. You can attempt to contact their corporate headquarters in New York for high-level sponsorship inquiries. Comparably 3. Utilize "Round-Up" Programs
Many stores offer a "Round Up" program at checkout. If you represent a large youth-focused charity, you might inquire about becoming a future beneficiary of these in-store campaigns. Aeropostale ⚠️ Important Considerations No Resale:
Aeropostale strictly prohibits the resale of its merchandise. Donated items must be used for their intended charitable purpose (e.g., given to those in need or used in a silent auction) and cannot be returned to a store for credit. Most corporate entities require a 6 to 10-week lead time for any sponsorship consideration. Service Inspired Restaurants - SIR Corp Aéropostale Values - Aeropostale
⭐ 2.5 / 5 – Possible but not easy.
Aeropostale can be a decent source for small, local, in-kind donations, especially for teen-focused events. However, the lack of a clear online process and inconsistent responses make it less reliable than other retailers. Best used as a supplemental donation source, not your main sponsor. Go in person to a store for the best chance.
This is a heartwarming story about a community coming together through an Aéropostale donation request, told from the perspective of a local youth center director. The Thread of Confidence
The cardboard boxes stacked in the corner of my office weren't just full of clothes; they were full of potential.
As the director of the Riverdale Youth Reach, I see kids every day who are fighting battles most adults couldn’t handle. But sometimes, the hardest battle is just feeling like you belong. Last month, our "Teen Night" attendance was dwindling. I realized it wasn’t because the kids were bored—it was because they were embarrassed. Their jeans were frayed in the wrong places, and their shirts were hand-me-downs that didn't fit their growing frames.
I decided to reach out to Aéropostale. I’d heard about their history of community involvement, so I drafted a donation request. I told them about Maya, who stayed home from the school dance because she didn't have "cool" clothes, and Leo, who wore the same hoodie every day regardless of the weather. Two weeks later, the delivery truck arrived.
When we opened those boxes, the room filled with the scent of "new." There were stacks of crisp graphic tees, sturdy denim, and those iconic hoodies. We set up a "Pop-Up Shop" in the gym, but with a twist: everything was free.
I watched Leo walk in, his shoulders hunched as usual. He picked out a navy blue Aéropostale zip-up. He put it on, looked in the mirror, and for the first time in months, he stood up straight. He didn't just look like a "kid from the center"; he looked like a teenager who belonged anywhere he wanted to go.
Maya found a pair of high-waisted jeans and a soft pastel top. She didn't just take the clothes; she took a selfie. She was smiling.
That donation did more than provide warmth and coverage. It provided a sense of dignity. At the Youth Reach, we provide the mentorship and the safety, but that day, Aéropostale provided the confidence. Now, when our teens walk through those doors, they aren’t worried about their clothes. They’re focused on their futures.
Aéropostale's philanthropic efforts primarily focus on youth homelessness and community support through established partnerships rather than a public, individual donation request form
. If you are looking to request a donation for a local cause, the most effective route is typically contacting a local store manager directly, as the brand often empowers local teams to support their communities. Aeropostale Major Charitable Programs Teens for Jeans
: This is Aéropostale’s most recognizable initiative, run in partnership with DoSomething.org
. The program encourages customers to donate gently-used jeans at any Aéropostale location
to be distributed to local teen shelters and charities. Donors often receive a discount (e.g., 20% off) on a new pair of jeans as a thank-you. Delivering Good
: Aéropostale has partnered with this 501(c)(3) nonprofit since 2007 to provide new merchandise to people in need. The company regularly donates merchandise samples, totaling over $8 million in value to date. Aero Cares
: This is an internal 501(c)(3) organization funded by employee contributions to assist team members during extreme hardships, such as medical emergencies or natural disasters. Global Citizen : In 2024, the brand launched a capsule collection with Global Citizen to support international advocacy and social change. Aeropostale How to Engage Aéropostale Values - Aeropostale
Aéropostale does not have a public, automated online portal for individual 501(c)(3) donation requests. Instead, the brand focuses its philanthropic efforts on large-scale corporate partnerships and employee-driven initiatives. Primary Charitable Partnerships
Aéropostale prioritizes long-standing relationships with established nonprofit organizations:
Delivering Good: Since 2007, Aéropostale has donated over $8 million in merchandise samples to help provide hope and dignity to people in need.
Feeding America: During seasonal campaigns like #GivingTuesday, the brand often partners with Feeding America to match customer donations and provide meals to families.
Global Citizen: Recently, the brand launched the Aéropostale x Take Action collection, an eco-conscious line designed to empower youth to take action on global issues.
Boys & Girls Clubs of America: Aéropostale frequently includes this organization in its annual "round-up" donation programs at checkout. How to Contact Aéropostale for Support
Since there is no dedicated "Donation Request" form, local organizations and schools seeking support may try the following alternative routes: aeropostale donation request
In-Store Inquiries: Local store managers sometimes have limited discretion for small-scale local community support or "Shopping Night" events. You can find your nearest location using the Aéropostale Store Locator.
Corporate Contact: For formal sponsorship proposals or large-scale partnership inquiries, you can reach out to their corporate customer service to be directed to the community relations department: Phone: 1-877-289-2376 (Available 8 AM - 2 AM EST). Email: contactus@aeropostale.com.
Live Chat: Available on the official website from 8 AM - 9 PM EST. Tips for a Successful Proposal
If you are reaching out to a local manager or corporate office, ensure your request includes: Aéropostale Values - Aeropostale
To request a donation from Aéropostale , you should contact their corporate office or a local store manager directly. While the company does not have a public online donation portal, standard practice involves submitting a formal letter on your organization's letterhead. Where to Send Your Request Customer Service Email customerservice@aeropostale.com Customer Service Phone : 1-877-289-2376 Local Store
: Visit the manager at your nearest location to see if they have a local budget for community events or raffles. Aeropostale Sample Donation Request Text Donation Request: [Your Organization Name] – [Event Date] Dear Aéropostale Community Relations Team, I am writing on behalf of [Your Organization Name]
[briefly describe your organization, e.g., local high school cheer team / non-profit youth center] . We are currently preparing for our upcoming [Event Name] , and we would be honored to have Aéropostale’s support. Our mission is to
[mention your goal, e.g., provide affordable sports programs for teens] . We are seeking a donation of [be specific: e.g., a $50 gift card or apparel items] to be used for our [e.g., silent auction / giveaway] Soapbox Engage How your donation helps: All proceeds will directly fund
[specific initiative, e.g., new uniforms or scholarship funds] Visibility: As a donor, your brand will be featured in our
[mention where: e.g., event program, social media posts, or website] , reaching over [Estimated Number] local community members. Power Textor
We would appreciate it if you could let us know if this is possible by [Deadline Date]
. Thank you for considering our request and for your commitment to supporting youth in our community. Power Textor Sincerely, [Your Name] [Title/Role] [Phone Number] [Tax ID #, if applicable] Best Practices for Success Be Specific:
Clearly state exactly what you need (gift cards are usually easier for retailers to fulfill than specific clothing items). Provide Context:
Explain why Aéropostale is a good fit for your cause (e.g., your audience is the same age group they serve). Proof of Status:
Include your non-profit Tax ID number to verify your organization's legitimacy. customizing
this template for a specific event or a different retail brand?
How To Ask For Donations By Text & Email: Wording & Examples
Title: Corporate Philanthropy in Retail: A Guide to the Aeropostale Donation Request Process
Abstract In the landscape of corporate social responsibility (CSR), retail brands often leverage their resources to support local communities. Aeropostale, a prominent specialty retailer of casual apparel and accessories, maintains a commitment to philanthropy through structured donation request programs. This paper explores the mechanisms by which Aeropostale handles donation requests, the specific causes the company prioritizes (with a historical emphasis on mental health and teen wellness), the standard application process for nonprofit organizations, and the strategic benefits of such corporate philanthropy.
1. Introduction Corporate philanthropy has evolved from optional goodwill into a strategic imperative for modern retailers. For brands targeting the youth demographic, aligning business operations with social causes builds brand loyalty and fosters community trust. Aeropostale, traditionally a destination for teenagers and young adults, utilizes donation requests as a primary vehicle for community engagement. By donating merchandise and resources to schools, charities, and youth organizations, Aeropostale reinforces its brand identity as a supporter of the next generation.
2. Strategic Focus: Teen Wellness and Education Unlike general corporations that may support a wide array of unrelated causes, Aeropostale’s donation guidelines have historically been tightly aligned with its core demographic: teenagers.
The brand is widely recognized for its long-standing partnership with the Jed Foundation (JED), a nonprofit that protects emotional health and prevents suicide for teens and young adults. Through initiatives like the "Aero Cares" program, Aeropostale has often directed its donation resources toward organizations that support:
By narrowing the scope of their donations, Aeropostale ensures that their corporate giving directly impacts their customer base, creating a tangible link between the consumer and the corporate citizen.
3. The Donation Request Process To manage the high volume of requests, Aeropostale, like many large retailers, utilizes a structured application process. This ensures fairness and allows the company to vet organizations for compliance with IRS regulations.
3.1 Eligibility Requirements Aeropostale typically restricts donations to organizations that meet specific criteria:
3.2 Methods of Solicitation There are generally two avenues for soliciting donations:
4. Best Practices for a Successful Request Securing a donation from a corporate entity requires a professional approach. A well-crafted donation request letter is essential.
5. Impact and Corporate Social Responsibility The impact of these donation requests extends beyond the monetary value of the items. For Aeropostale, in-store donation programs serve as a form of grassroots marketing. When a local store donates to a high school event, it increases foot traffic from students and parents, strengthening the store's position in the local community.
For the nonprofits and schools, the donations serve as vital fundraising tools. Apparel and gift cards are high-demand auction items, often fetching bids that exceed their face value, thereby maximizing the fundraising potential for the organization.
6. Conclusion The Aeropostale donation request process exemplifies how modern retailers integrate community support into their business models. By focusing on teen wellness and education, the brand creates a cohesive identity that resonates with its customers. For organizations seeking support, understanding the importance of alignment with the brand’s mission, adhering to formal request procedures, and offering marketing value are key to a successful partnership. As consumers increasingly demand ethical and community-focused businesses, programs like these remain essential to the retail ecosystem.
Appendix: Sample Donation Request Letter
[Your Organization Letterhead] [Date]
Aeropostale Store Manager [Store Address] [City, State, Zip Code]
Re: Donation Request for [Event Name]
Dear Store Manager,
I am writing to you on behalf of [Organization Name], a [501(c)(3) nonprofit / local high school] dedicated to [brief mission statement, e.g., supporting local youth arts programs].
On [Date], we will be hosting our annual [Event Name]. This event anticipates an attendance of over [Number] local teenagers and their parents. Our goal is to raise funds to [specific goal, e.g., fund new equipment for the drama department].
We would be incredibly grateful if Aeropostale would consider supporting our event through an in-kind donation, such as a gift card or merchandise item. Aeropostale’s reputation as a brand that supports teens makes you an ideal partner for our cause.
In return for your generosity, we would be happy to recognize Aeropostale in our event program and on our social media channels, reaching over [Number] local followers.
I have attached our 501(c)(3) determination letter for your records. Thank you for your time and for considering our request.
Sincerely,
[Your Name] [Your Title] [Contact Information]
While Aéropostale has a strong history of charitable involvement—most notably through their famous "Teens for Jeans" campaign—they do not currently offer a public, web-based portal for individual or local donation requests. Their philanthropic efforts are typically managed through corporate-level partnerships rather than store-by-store grants.
Here is an informative breakdown of how the brand handles donations and how you can approach them: 1. Corporate Giving Philosophy
Aéropostale generally focuses its social responsibility on large-scale initiatives that support youth and environmental causes. Instead of fulfilling small, localized requests (like a high school raffle or local 5k), they partner with major organizations such as DoSomething.org and Free The Children to make a broader impact. 2. The "Teens for Jeans" Legacy
The brand's most successful donation platform was the Teens for Jeans campaign, which collected millions of pairs of gently used denim for youth experiencing homelessness. While the campaign's active status varies by year, it remains the primary way the brand facilitates community-driven donations. 3. How to Submit a Request
Since there is no official "Donation Request Form" on the Aéropostale official website, you have two main avenues for inquiry:
Store Manager Outreach: For very small, local events, you can visit a nearby Aéropostale store location and speak directly with the General Manager. While they often have limited "discretionary" budgets, they can sometimes provide small items or coupons for local non-profits.
Corporate Contact: For formal or large-scale sponsorship inquiries, you can contact their parent company, Authentic Brands Group (ABG). They manage the global social responsibility strategy for the brand. 4. Alternative Strategies for Non-Profits
If you are looking for clothing donations for a specific cause, consider these alternatives:
Goodwill or Salvation Army: Often partner with retailers for bulk "overstock" donations.
Retailers with Open Portals: Companies like Gap, Target, and Walmart have dedicated community grant portals where you can apply for funding or in-kind donations online.
To create an effective donation request for Aéropostale, you should align your message with their established philanthropic focus areas: mental health, youth homelessness, and clothing for people in need. Strategic Content for Your Request
Focus on Youth and Mental Health: Aéropostale's current mission centers on empowering teens and young adults, specifically fostering mental and emotional health through partnerships like the JED Foundation. If your cause supports teen wellness, highlight this connection.
Emphasize Clothing Needs: Historically, the brand has been a massive supporter of denim drives for homeless youth, such as the "Teens for Jeans" campaign. If you are requesting clothing or gift cards, explain how these specific items will directly benefit young people in need of "hope and dignity".
Demonstrate Community Impact: Mention how their contribution (such as merchandise samples or store gift cards) will be used to reach a specific local or youth-oriented demographic. Contact Information
While Aéropostale does not have a dedicated public donation portal for one-off local requests, you can reach out to their corporate or customer service channels to inquire about regional programs:
Customer Service Email: customerservice@aeropostale.com or contactus@aeropostale.com Phone: 1-877-289-2376 (8 AM to 2 AM EST) Request Best Practices
Be Concise: Start by clearly stating what you are asking for (e.g., a $50 gift card for a school raffle).
Provide a Personal Story: Brief, compelling stories about how the brand's target youth audience will benefit can make your request stand out.
Include Tax-Exempt Details: If you are a 501(c)(3), include your EIN, as they often partner with registered nonprofits like Delivering Good. Aéropostale Values - Aeropostale
While Aéropostale does not have a public, automated online portal for individual donation requests, they focus their giving through large-scale strategic partnerships and employee-led initiatives Aeropostale Aéropostale’s Philanthropic Approach Delivering Good : Aéropostale's primary philanthropic partner is Delivering Good
(formerly K.I.D.S./Fashion Delivers). They regularly donate merchandise samples and have contributed over $8 million in merchandise to this cause since 2007. Employee Initiatives : Through the "AERO in Action"
program, employees raise money for local and national charities they are passionate about, such as disaster relief or community walks. Special Campaigns
: The brand frequently runs limited-time charitable collections. Examples include their Pride collection , which has supported the Ali Forney Center for homeless LGBTQ+ youth, and their historic "Teens for Jeans" campaign with DoSomething.org Aeropostale How to Reach Out
If you are representing a non-profit and wish to inquire about support or a potential partnership: General Charitable Inquiries : The recommended contact for charitable matters is aebetterworld@ae.com Corporate Headquarters : You can address formal proposals to their main office: : 112 W 34th Street, Floor 22, New York, NY 10120. Local Store Requests
: For small, local event donations (like a raffle prize), consider visiting your Local Aéropostale Store
in person to speak with a manager. While not guaranteed, some store managers have limited discretion for local community support. Tips for Your Request Proof of Status : Always include your organization's 501(c)(3) tax ID. Mission Alignment Focus requests on clear youth impact, concise documentation,
: Clearly state how your cause aligns with Aéropostale’s values of acceptance, empathy, and respect.
: Be direct about whether you are seeking merchandise, gift cards, or a volunteer partnership. OpenSecrets sample email template to use for your inquiry to their charitable department?
How To Ask For Donations By Text & Email: Wording & Examples
Title: The Weight of a Backpack
The fluorescent lights of the Riverwood High School gymnasium hummed with a low, headache-inducing buzz. For Elena, a high school junior with a penchant for oversized hoodies and a desperate need to stay invisible, the gym wasn't a place of triumph. It was a place of exposure.
It was the annual "Spirit Week" Pep Rally, and the theme was "Neon Night."
Elena sat on the bleachers, pulling her arms inside her tattered, grey sweatshirt. It wasn't just that she didn’t own anything neon; it was that the sweatshirt she was wearing was threadbare, the cuffs frayed into string, and the collar stretched wide from years of use. It smelled faintly of damp wool and old memories—memories of a time before her father lost his job, before the move to the smaller apartment, and before "new clothes" became a luxury that fell off the priority list, replaced by groceries and electricity bills.
Across the gym, the popular group—The "A-Crowd"—danced in matching, bright, trendy outfits. Elena recognized the brand immediately. The stitched butterfly logo on the back pocket of their jeans, the distinct font on their graphic tees. It was Aeropostale. To them, it was just a mall store. To Elena, it was a uniform of belonging she couldn't afford.
"Elena!"
She flinched. It was Mr. Harrison, the school guidance counselor. He was walking up the bleacher steps, holding a clipboard. He was a kind man, but his kindness often felt like scrutiny to someone trying to hide their struggles.
"Just wanted to check in," he said, sitting down beside her. "I noticed you didn't submit a form for the Winter Formal next week."
"Didn't feel like going," Elena mumbled, keeping her eyes on the gym floor.
"You’re a junior, Elena. These are the years you should be making memories." He paused, his gaze drifting to the frayed cuff of her sleeve. He didn't say anything, but Elena felt a hot flush of shame crawl up her neck. "By the way," he lowered his voice, "there’s a community outreach program launching this week. A corporate partnership. I think you should swing by the main office tomorrow morning."
"I'm good, Mr. Harrison."
"Indulge me," he said, standing up. "Just ask for the representative from the retail partner. It’s a drop-in thing. No red tape."
The next morning, Elena walked into the main office, intending to tell Mr. Harrison she wasn't interested in whatever charity case he was setting up. But when she opened the door, she stopped.
Sitting at a folding table near the reception desk wasn’t a stern social worker with a clipboard. It was a young woman, maybe mid-twenties, wearing a bright, stylish sweater. On the table in front of her were stacks of folded clothing—hoodies, jeans, and tees—and a banner that read: Aeropostale Teens for Jeans & Community Care Drive.
Elena froze. She recognized the logo instantly. The very brand that signaled "normalcy" to the teenagers outside was sitting here, in the office, free for the taking? It felt like a trap.
The woman at the table looked up and smiled. She didn't look like she was distributing pity; she looked like she was hosting a pop-up shop.
"Hi! I'm Sarah," she said cheerfully. "You must be Elena. Mr. Harrison mentioned you might stop by."
Elena stepped closer, her hands gripping the straps of her backpack. "I... I don't really need charity."
Sarah’s expression softened. She picked up a folded bundle of fabric—a heather-grey hoodie, but unlike Elena’s old one, this one was thick, plush, and new. It had a small, tasteful embroidered logo on the chest.
"It's not charity, Elena. It's a donation request fulfillment. Aeropostale started this initiative because they know how expensive basics have gotten. They partner
Aeropostale is a retailer. Their cost for a t-shirt is far lower than the retail price. Asking for 50 t-shirts (retail value $500) feels generous to you, but it costs them only ~$100 in inventory. Asking for a $500 check feels expensive to them.
Bad ask: "We need $1,000 in sponsorship money." Good ask: "We need 50 graphic t-shirts for volunteer appreciation day."
| Request Type | Best For | Channel | |--------------|----------|---------| | Local store donation (small event, school raffle, community drive) | Local youth programs, PTA groups, small fundraisers | Visit or call a nearby Aeropostale store manager | | Corporate/regional donation (larger nonprofit, multi-site event) | United Way, Boys & Girls Clubs, large galas | Corporate giving form or email (if available) | | Product donation for disaster relief | Emergency shelters, clothing drives | Must go through corporate – see Step 3 |
Aeropostale’s focus is on youth apparel (teens/young adults). Requests should align with this demographic.
Not through a dedicated portal, but yes via the "Contact Us" form on their website. Select "Community Relations" as your subject.
✅ Tip: Local managers often approve small gift card donations ($25–$50) or a few clothing items for school auctions.
To understand Aeropostale's current approach to donations, one must first understand its turbulent corporate journey.
The Golden Era (1990s-2010s) Founded in 1987, Aeropostale became a staple of American mall culture in the late 1990s and early 2000s. During this peak, the company operated over 1,000 stores globally. With high foot traffic and robust margins, the brand had the infrastructure to support local community giving. Store managers were often empowered to donate gift cards or clothing vouchers to nearby schools for silent auctions, raffles, and prom nights.
The Bankruptcy and Rebirth (2016-2020) In 2016, Aeropostale filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. It emerged as a leaner company under the ownership of Authentic Brands Group (ABG) and mall operators Simon Property Group and Brookfield Property Partners. This shift was critical. ABG is a brand management powerhouse that licenses its name to various operating partners (like Simon, who runs the physical stores). Consequently, the decision-making power for donations decentralized dramatically.
The Current Landscape (Present Day) Today, Aeropostale operates hundreds of stores primarily in North America. However, the "mall-based, manager-autonomous" model of the 2000s has been replaced by a centralized, cost-conscious approach. Donations are rarely processed at the store level anymore. Instead, most charitable giving is funneled through national partnerships or specific corporate programs.