Membership is a Privilege: JPM Joins Sustainable Business Network

It has been 10 years since Judy Wicks, the creative force behind the White Dog Cafe and an entire sustainability movement, formed the Sustainable Business Network. Since 2004, the organization has nearly quadrupled membership to roughly 600 businesses in Greater Philadelphia.

JPM is proud to announce it can now be counted on this impressive list of companies that are bonded by sustainable business practices. Earlier this month, JPM became a member of SBN and we're proud to display our member seal.

So what does membership mean? Foremost it means we share SBN's mission of working toward "a future where businesses are investors in the quality of life for all citizens."

There are a bunch of networking and educational perks, which especially help businesses working in industries that don't exactly contain a wealth of capacity for implementing more sustainable practices (like the often wasteful catering and events industry).

Some of JPM's sustainable practices include:

-- Composting most kitchen scraps

-- Using compostable service ware, like utensils, takeout containers, and dishes made from corn or sugar cane

-- Using local and organic meats, dairy and produce

-- Using many herbs and some produce grown in our very own organic garden

-- Using natural or repurposed decor whenever possible

-- Planning seasonal menus

Above all, we aim to answer SBN's call to build a profitable enterprise that serves community needs, shares wealth and protects the environment.

If you'd like to get a closer look at the kind of innovations that Wicks is known for and help support scholarships for SBN's Social Venture Institute, you should reserve your spot for the 10th Anniversary Fundraiser -- a party at Wicks' Center City home.

Also of note: SBN is moving. After closing its old office for Labor Day weekend, it will reopen at its new digs at One Penn Center at Suburban Station (1617 JFK Blvd., Suite 1855).