Corporate Social Responsibility
Community and Social Impact
At Parallel, we're more than just a presence in the cannabis industry; we're part of a community. We know we're in a unique position, and with that comes a genuine responsibility to make real and impactful changes.
Rooted in this ethos, we're steadfast in our dedication to advancing social equity, and we do so through purposeful actions and strategic partnerships that make a tangible difference. In every market we step into, our emphasis revolves around creating economic opportunities, championing diversity, and fostering inclusivity. This is evident in our initiatives that span job fairs, skills enhancement workshops, fellowships, and social equity programs, to name a few.
We've joined hands with some incredible groups that share our vision. Together with the Minority Cannabis Business Association, BCB Mastermind, Let's Talk Weed, and Minorities for Medical Marijuana, and others, we're rolling up our sleeves and getting to work.
It's not just about business for us. It's about the people, the stories, and the communities we touch. We're in this journey together, aiming to make the cannabis world a bit brighter, fairer, and more inclusive for everyone. Because at the end of the day, it's the collective effort that truly drives change.
Big Cannabis Should Make a Big Impact
A few years ago, we acknowledged we had not been doing enough to help the cannabis industry be a model for social equity and inclusivity. We pledged to work to make the industry more equitable by committing resources to advocate for fundamental changes while at the same time using our resources to directly bring about those changes in meaningful ways.
We are committed to creating more pathways in our industry for entrepreneurs of color. After years of state lead legalization, minority ownership in the industry still hovers near 4%. This is alarming considering all the talk of social equity that preceded legalization debates around the country.
We took an important step forward in 2022 by collaborating with BCB Mastermind to create the CEO Intensive. This national education series intends to not only increase minority ownership in the cannabis industry but to provide tools, resources, and education that create longevity and success. Since its inception two years ago, the CEO Intensive has reached over 150 cannabis entrepreneurs across the country.
By working with advocates and activists to expand the industry in an equitable fashion we’ve begun to develop the next phase of an industry that will create real opportunities for economic empowerment for underserved communities, foster innovation, and expand access to a plant we all believe can create a paradigm shift in health and wellness around the world.
We Got You!
At Parallel, we see beyond the plant; we see a community. Born from a fundamental belief that everyone is entitled to medical relief, our journey has grown richer and our commitment deeper. With each step we take, our goal remains clear: make wellness accessible to all.
Navigating the path to medical cannabis can often be laden with obstacles, namely the cost of certification and finding a certifying physician. To bridge this gap, we've allied with pioneering organizations like Minorities for Medical Marijuana, paving the way for over 500 Floridians to receive free medical marijuana certifications in a familiar community setting. Similarly, in Texas, our partnership with Leafwell has transformed lives, granting an additional 100 individuals’ access to wellness without the hefty cost.
Our mission, however, goes beyond these collaborations. We're fervent advocates of Home Grow, championing the right of every individual to cultivate their own source of wellness. To us, Home Grow is more than just sowing seeds; it symbolizes independence, a deeper bond with one's health.
Our dedication to community and wellness takes a special turn when we think of our nation's veterans. Recognizing the invaluable sacrifices they've made; we ardently believe in the transformative power of plant-based medicine for them. In all our markets we offer everyday discounts for veterans and partner with local advocacy organization to increase veteran access to cannabis. Because, at the end of the day, our mission is simple: to stand by you, to champion wellness for all, and to remind everyone, from our partners to our veterans, that on this journey towards better health and well-being, "we got you."