Streetwear and sneaker retailer SNIPES recently launched its Pay It Forward initiative, a nationwide campaign that aims to “provide opportunities for underrepresented communities and empower the next generation of leaders by supporting education and creating a platform for important conversations.” The initiative, which supports Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), launched on April 11 at Clark Atlanta University during The Big Homecoming cultural festival. The initial event’s panel conversations included topics such as workplace diversity, overcoming adversity, the significance of inclusion in the workplace, leadership, financial literacy, health, entrepreneurship, and creating a sustainable legacy of Black excellence. Additionally, SNIPES committed to providing $50,000 in scholarships for Atlanta students.

Recovery footwear brand Kane Footwear is launching an upcycling program called Project Renew that will allow customers to send back used Revive slip-on footwear styles and have them converted into yoga and changing mats. In exchange for returning their Revive slip-ons to be upcycled, customers will receive a $10 gift card to the Kane site. The brand is partnering with Lavarubber to bring Project Renew to life. Customers can request a prepaid shipping label on Kane’s site, and the shoes will be sent to Lavarubber to be shredded into flakes that can then be incorporated into mats. Flakes of Revive slip-ons are mixed with a generic Lavarubber mix including wetsuits.

Laura Janney is joining Irvine, CA-based retailer Tilly’s next month as EVP/Chief Merchandising Officer where she will oversee all buying, sourcing, and product development. She has previously worked for Hudson’s Bay and Nordstrom.

Industry veteran Dave Larson has joined K-Swiss as VP of global marketing. Over his career, Larson has worked for Brooks Running and Under Armour among other firms.