When you think of the term “promotional products”, you may imagine branded pens and koozies. But, you probably wouldn’t describe those products as “life-changing.”
However, for Dan Nevins, a branded backpack that he received in Walter Reed Army Medical Center would greatly impact his life. Dan was deployed to Balad, Iraq as a squad leader in 2004. That same year, his vehicle was hit with an improvised explosive device, resulting in the amputation of his legs below the knee.
At the beginning of his 18-month stay at the medical center, Dan received a Wounded Warrior Project branded backpack filled with promotional products. This life-altering event led him to join the Wounded Warrior Project, where he serves as the director of the Warrior Speak team, as well as the founder of the Warrior Spirit Retreat, a holistic healing experience for wounded veterans.
Dan also is a brand ambassador for Sweda’s Basecamp products, meant to fuel the corporate adventurer in all of us. In 2015, he spoke to the Sweda team, and his story was so moving, the company asked him to be a part of the Basecamp family, enhancing the brand’s connection to consumers and supporting a worthy cause.

“People really resonated with his message and who he is as a person,” said Kellie Claudio, Sweda senior vice president of sales and marketing.
Since Dan’s involvement, Basecamp sales have skyrocketed, with 45 percent growth throughout the entire brand and 90 percent growth for the drinkware line.
Embracing the Corporate Adventurer
Launched in 2012, Basecamp started with two backpacks, which are still bestsellers today. From there, the brand expanded the collection with products that fulfilled a love for adventure and getting outside. From flashlights, tents, stainless-steel tumblers, knit beanies, and beyond, Basecamp has a product for every outdoor enthusiast.
“This year especially, families are reconnecting with the outdoors and the beauty that nature can bring,” Kellie said.
The pandemic has pushed many people outside. Taking their families on camping trips or going to the lake for the day, many have found a love for nature. “People are taking the time to go to our national parks and see the magnificent things that we have.”

Sweda continues to develop products that can accompany anyone on any outdoor excursion, extending a brand that has already given back to so many people.
Giving Back to a Worthy Cause
The proceeds from 2019 Basecamp sales allowed Sweda to present Dan Nevins and the Warrior Spirit Retreat with over $100,000 this year.
Sweda is continuing to strengthen its partnership with Wounded Warrior Project, encouraging team members to fundraise and participate in the Carry Forward 5K event. The Basecamp Warrior Squad raised $6,285 for the cause!

“During the run, you’re carrying a person on your back, a flag, or just walking with someone and carrying their (mental) weight for them,” Kellie explained.

Plus, with many corporations donating to Wounded Warrior Project, Basecamp products are the perfect promotional items to hand out. Your clients will not only love the high-quality products, but they’ll know the proceeds are making a significant difference by giving back to those who have served our country.
For more information about Sweda or Basecamp, visit https://www.swedausa.com/en_us.