Partner Toolkit: Local Business Accountability
What is the For Better Project?
A directory that highlights businesses building safer, more connected communities (ex. coffee shops, barbershops, and bookstores!)
Why use it?
where you spend your money shapes the world. When you support businesses that care about people, you help create safer communities.
TURN YOUR EVERYDAY CHOICES INTO COMMUNITY IMPACT.
The For Better Project is a public directory of local businesses that help shape safer, more connected neighborhoods. It points to the places that do more than transact. They create trust, offer care, and make room for people to belong.
This project exists because community power is built in ordinary moments. Where we eat, shop, gather, and spend time influences what our neighborhoods value and who they are built for. Supporting businesses that lead with responsibility and inclusion helps strengthen the social fabric that makes communities safer.
The For Better Project makes those places easier to find. You do not need special knowledge or experience. Participation starts by choosing to support the spaces that invest in people and show up for their communities.
Find your local “better.”
Start with the directory. Browse the map, look for local gems, and maybe discover places you’ve never tried.
The map is currently active in five states:
- Illinois
- Michigan
- Pennsylvania
- Ohio
- Wisconsin
Examples of businesses you might find:
- Venues & Travel
- Books & Art
- Clothing & Accessories
- Food, Beverage, & Grocery
- Health, Wellness & Personal Care
- Hobby & Entertainment
- Nonprofit
- Outdoors & Fitness
- Services
- Shopping, Home Goods & Specialty
Shop with intention.
Every purchase is a vote for the kind of community you want.
When you choose a For Better business, you’re supporting places that:
- Treat workers with dignity
- Invest in local safety and connection
- Open their doors for community gathering
- Believe everyone deserves to be part of something
You’re not just buying coffee or a haircut, you’re fueling a movement.
Notice what’s missing.
As you explore your community, keep your eyes open.
Ask yourself:
- Which local businesses are doing great community work but aren’t listed yet?
- Where do people feel safe, included, or cared for?
- Who is quietly making a difference without recognition?
The directory grows because people like you point to what’s already working.
Nominate a business.
If you know a business that deserves to be featured, submit it here.
You’re helping:
- Shine a spotlight on local leaders
- Connect more people to positive spaces
- Expand the directory so others can discover them.
- Nomination is quick. It’s also an act of community care.
KEEP GROWING THE MOVEMENT.
The For Better Project is proof that safety isn’t just about policy. It’s about people, places, and connections. When you lift up local businesses that care, you help rewrite what safety looks like. Young people have the power to transform communities through the choices we make every day.
What Happens Now?
Congratulations on holding local businesses accountable, let us know how it went! (we love when you share pics!)