You Probably Didn't Know About Dollar Tree's Mission

Most of us have probably bought something at a Dollar Tree. From running inside the nearest store to grab something you forgot, to making it a part of your regular shopping routine, the store has something for just about any occasion — and all for just a dollar. But whether you purchase groceries and household items there every week, or only come in for party supplies or seasonal decorations, you might not know that you're also supporting Dollar Tree's mission: to help empower their associates and deliver value for their customers without raising prices over one dollar.

Since the founding of the first Dollar Tree in Norfolk, Virginia in 1953, the company — which was then named K&K 5&10 — aspired to provide quality goods to their community at reasonable prices. They were so successful that the company continued to expand, opening over 130 stores on the East coast by the 1970s, according to Dollar Tree. Throughout the '80s and '90s, the company continued to grow, acquiring other dollar stores along the way. By 2014, they'd opened their 5,000th store and were making over $7 billion in sales nationwide per year.

The company's full mission statement reads: "Dollar Tree, Inc. is a customer-oriented, value-driven variety store operating at a one dollar price point. We will operate profitably, empower our associates to share in its opportunities, rewards and successes; and deal with others in an honest and considerate way. The company's mission will be consistent with measured and profitable growth" (Via Dollar Tree). They also promise to hold their employees to high standards of doing the right thing for the right reason, treating everyone with dignity and respect, and maintaining a positive attitude while prioritizing responsibility, integrity, and courtesy.

But not only does Dollar Tree support their customers and their associates, they also give back to their community. According to Money Inc, they contribute to several charities, including the Virginia Foundation of Independent Colleges' Brighter Future Scholarship Program (which provides education funds for children in need) as well as Operation Homefront (a nonprofit that supports military families). Dollar Tree also sponsors the program Growing Wetlands in the Classroom, an educational project that provides Virginia school children the opportunity to grow wetland plants at school, which are then planted in nearby wetlands (via Lynnhaven River Now). So the next time you shop at Dollar Tree, you're not just getting a great deal, you're also helping to support the local community and the company's commitment to honesty, integrity, and customer service — all for just a buck.