Innovation

The Positive Vibe Movement gained life through Bahnick’s idea of using the PV brand to promote positivity, love, equality, and happiness. His brand is represented through messages on clothing and apparel that inspire positivity. Bahnick said, “I want to create a brand and a line of clothing that makes people feel epic, awesome, spreading love, and positivity through clothing.” He chose this innovation because when individuals purchase garments, it heightens their overall mood. When you dress good, you feel good. His business model represents a "when you dress good, you feel good" argument. The goal is to have a recognizable brand, like Livestrong, that people could identify as a reminder to stay positive. By having small reminders of positive messages through various types of clothing, Bahnick has created a movement that encourages others to unify and embrace positivity.

Bahnick’s idea did not stop there. Not only does he give back by promoting inspirational messages through clothing and apparel, but also through donations to charities. While PV donates to multiple charities, Bahnick would like to eventually focus on only a few to help cultivate stronger relationships. Another large push for this organization is to be a strong supporter of Mental Health Awareness and Suicide Prevention.

Inspiration

The idea of Positive Vibes was born through an impressive 2014 baseball season at Kennesaw State University. The movement began when Matt hit a low point in his life. Following the 2014 baseball season, Bahnick faced financial hardship which stripped him of his chance to play his senior year at KSU. After leaving a band of brothers behind, he bounced from job to job. His earnings from previous jobs allowed him to enroll at Florida State University (FSU). Here, he joined the baseball team, but not in the way his heart desired. Bahnick was assigned the role of team manager, and was in charge of doing the team's laundry. This is when Bahnick found himself becoming depressed. "What am I going to do with my life, I am so miserable right now" he said. Being 19 hours away from home he felt purposeless and his thoughts grew darker. He admits that if it wasn't for the support of his friends and family that he's not sure what would have happened.

Bahnick found himself thinking about the time he played in the Super Regional on FSU’s field. At this moment, his greatest memory was being tarnished by his current situation. He began thinking, “when was I the happiest?” His answer was when he was playing baseball with KSU and being with his brothers. That is when he realized that The Positive Vibe Movement was his salvation. He saw that using his brand to impact others’ lives while giving back was his purpose. He knew that not everybody was exposed to a support system like he had; therefore, he felt the need to create the method of support. “Positive Vibe Nation is all about love and that is what people need,” said Bahnick.

Overall impact

The overall impact of the Positive Vibes Movement has yet to reach its full potential. Bahnick wishes to have a national reach with this movement. By spreading this movement, love and positivity are born within millions, and the selected charities are earning funds to enhance their approaches.

Business benefit

Bahnick’s daily operations are out of Tampa, Florida, and the distribution center is out of Pennsylvania. The merchandise consists of unisex T-shirts, Hats, Tank Tops, and Hoodies that range from $25 to $45.

The Positive Vibe Movement is still in its infancy but remains growing. The movement has reached new heights this year by expanding into a retail store. Their products can be purchased through their website and are being promoted through social media. There are also several professional athletes, mostly in Major/Minor League Baseball, that promote PV.

Social and environmental benefit

Giving back was the mission from the start. PV gives back in two ways. The messages are given to the world to promote positivity and happiness, but the giving does not stop there. When an individual purchases an item from the PV website, he or she is allowed to have 5% of that payment donated towards a charity of choice. The charities currently available to donate to are: Extended Family, Pacer’s National Bullying Prevention Center, Miracle League, American Childhood Cancer Organization, No Kid Hungry, and American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

• Extended Family: A non-profit organization aiding single parents with their children.
• Pacer's National Bullying Prevention Center: Addresses bullying situations for kids, teens, parents, and communities nationwide.
• Miracle League: Gives disabled children the opportunity to play sports.
• American Childhood Cancer Organization: Provides leadership and supports research leading to a cure for all children with life-threatening diseases.
• No Kid Hungry: Provides children with nutrition programs.
• American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: A non-profit organization dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those affected by suicide.

PV would like to eventually host events to spread awareness of the charities to which they donate. With the company still growing, they will eventually reach this successful point.

Interview

Matt Bahnick, CEO and Founder of Positive Vibes