The owners of two popular local apparel companies, Gilbert-based Iconic Arizona and Glendale-based Goodfellas Merch, are partnering to offer two new t-shirt designs with all proceeds benefiting the AZ Coronavirus Relief Fund. The designs feature a new “Always Arizona” logo with one design showcasing an iconic towering saguaro on the back. Fifty of the $20 shirts were sold the first day.
Nick Carmichael, owner of Iconic Arizona, and Joe Matarazzo, owner of Goodfellas Merch, first met at the Arizona Strong Beer Festival and immediately hit it off. Soon after, they began working together, and now they have come together to provide financial assistance to the AZ Coronavirus Relief Fund, which was established to provide financial support to organizations working to mitigate the impacts of COVID-19 in Arizona.
Following the escalation of the COVID-19 crisis, Carmichael says he kept thinking there must be something he could do to help. “I contemplated donating a portion of proceeds from sales of current items, but didn’t feel like that would generate enough buzz to raise the most money possible,” he explains.
Carmichael, who is also an economics teacher at Skyline High School in East Mesa and father of three, says he tested the idea with Iconic Arizona Instagram followers and there was an immediate positive reaction to the designs.
When Nick approached his friend to see about partnering with Goodfellas Merch on this philanthropic effort, Mattarazo says he was all in.
“Everyone here at Goodfellas has the utmost respect for Nick, says Mattarazo, business owner and Glendale father of three. “He is such a sincere dude, it was a no brainer. We were quick to jump into this project, as giving back is something we focus on all year long.”
Carmichael says Goodfellas’ commitment to local Arizona small business is remarkable. “Joe and Jana, his wife and co-owner, do absolutely everything in their power to source and produce as much of their business locally right here in Arizona. Chances are if you own a t-shirt from a local brewery or band, Goodfellas printed it. They produce all my t-shirts because their attention to detail and customer service is unmatched.”
So how much money are the two hoping to raise for the COVID-19 relief fund? “Any donation would make me happy,” says Mattarazo, “but there is something extra special about writing a check with four digits that makes your efforts feel even stronger, especially during these trying times.”
Always Arizona shirts benefiting the AZ Coronavirus Relief Fund and other Iconic Arizona apparel can be purchased online at iconicarizona.com.
AZ Big Media is looking to spotlight those individuals and businesses that have stepped up in the face of the current crisis we are all living through and made a difference in the communities in which we live, work and play. Do you know someone or an organization we should spotlight? Send the details to michael.gossie@azbigmedia.com.
