Sam Lewis

Intersection of Entrepreneurship and Philanthropy

A Southwest Florida native, Sam Lewis, attended the University of Florida where he studied business and psychology. Whether it has been through business or a medical field, Sam always knew he had a calling for helping others. This ultimately transpired into his discovery and passion for social entrepreneurship, and later his “WTF (Wear The Fund) epiphany”.

WTF is a Fort Myers-based company that specializes in screen-printing, embroidery and promotional items. Wear The Fund donates 3 percent of every purchase to the clients’ specified charity or non-profit choice, which is significantly higher than Amazon’s program at .5 percent of sales and Patagonia’s at 1 percent.

In his seventh year of operation, Lewis’ company has given diverse causes close to $200,000. That includes amongst many others: LARC (Lee County Association for Remarkable Citizens), Foundation for Lee County Public Schools, Keep Lee County Beautiful, Human Trafficking Awareness Partnerships, and Alzheimer’s Association.

“I am an entrepreneur and capitalist,” Mr. Lewis said, “But I also feel there’s a much better way to do it. Profit should not be the bottom line. My cause is a result of my desire to intersect entrepreneurship and philanthropy.”