“For Those Who Can’t” apparel is a business, started by a Kent State student, designed to motivate individuals to be grateful for the life they’ve been given.

Zack Schlund, a senior entrepreneurship major and finance minor and founder of the business, said he aims to spread the message of gratitude and resilience.

“The idea came from meeting people and seeing that a lot of people seem to take the simple things in life for granted,” Schlund said. “I wanted to start the business to encourage people to be more grateful for the life they live and to take full advantage of what they’re given in life.”

The website was published mid-January and currently consists of online sales selling a variety of graphic tees, but Schlund is looking for in-person retail opportunities in the near future, he said.

As a full-time student, sergeant and mechanic in the military, Schlund is independently running the business.

“Oftentimes I see people complaining about having too much to do in their lives,” Schlund said. “People who take their physical abilities for granted, it’s painful to see because there are people who are praying to be in that position — if they can’t find their own motivation to better themselves they can do it for those who are unable to.”

Schlund is planning on donating around 25-30% of all profits from “For Those Who Can’t” to charities beginning summer 2024, he said. He is looking for potential organizations with interest in Alex’s Lemonade Stand or Wounded Warrior Project.

“We need to find gratitude and push ourselves because we are given a life that so many people wish they had and we need to take advantage of it,” Schlund said.

He is hoping to expand beyond t-shirts to creating more items such as hoodies for fall 2024, he said.

“For Those Who Can’t walk, run, or see, be grateful for the ability to do so, and let gratitude propel you to new heights,” Schlund said in his mission statement. “For Those Who Can’t speak, hear, or think clearly, be grateful for your voice, your hearing and your mind, and use them to make a difference in the world. For Those Who Can’t enjoy the freedom of movement, be grateful for your strength and mobility, and use them to explore the world around you.”

Lauren Bischof is a beat reporter. Contact her at [email protected].