The story began in downtown Chicago, where Jeff and Jonny Imerman, along with their friend John May, were actively involved in promoting Imerman Angels. The one-on-one peer-mentor program matches someone fighting cancer with someone who has survived the same type of cancer.
The founders noticed a significant impact when friends and supporters started wearing high-quality, black-and-white t-shirts featuring the organization's logo – be it to the gym, on a run, or during everyday activities. People on the streets often stopped them and asked: What is Imerman Angels? The word began to spread, and the community began to grow. Imerman Angels is now in all 50 states and more than 100 countries.
"I wore this t-shirt every day for 12 years because I made such incredible connections every time I did." Jonny Imerman, Co-Founder CLOZTALK
Puzzled by why every nonprofit with a powerful mission didn't adopt a similar approach the Imerman brothers co-founded CLOZTALK.
The mission was clear: to provide a unique and impactful solution for nonprofits to raise awareness by offering custom-designed, high-quality apparel. The concept was to handle all aspects of the apparel process – from design and creation to sales and customer service – so that nonprofits could focus entirely on their missions without the burden of managing apparel logistics.
CLOZTALK became a manifestation of the lessons learned through Imerman Angels – understanding the branding power of apparel and its potential to ignite conversations, raise awareness, and build communities. The founders recognized that clothes have the ability to "talk" and be a powerful tool for connecting people with meaningful causes.
At its core, "Wear Because You Care" is a call to action. Instead of simply selecting an outfit based on aesthetics or comfort, this slogan prompts individuals to consider the broader implications of their clothing – the power to effect change, initiate conversations, and make a positive impact on the lives of others.
Clothing becomes a form of communication. CLOZTALK recognizes this potential, transforming each person into a walking ambassador for a cause they believe in. Rather than a blank canvas, individuals become storytellers, initiating conversations without saying a word.
The ripple effect of this conscious dressing is profound. As individuals proudly wear their charity-branded apparel, they become catalysts for meaningful conversations. Passersby might be intrigued by the logo on a t-shirt, sparking a dialogue that transcends fashion and delves into the heart of social issues. This connection, born from a simple question about clothing, has the potential to lead to increased awareness, support, and even action for the cause represented.
Founded on the principles of social impact and community building, CLOZTALK is partnering with over 400+ nonprofits and providing them with a platform to effortlessly spread their message through custom apparel.