The Philanthropic Journey of Scott Struthers: From Audio Innovator to Elephant Advocate
A Legacy Built on Innovation and Giving
Scott Struthers, co-founder of Sonance, is recognized for revolutionizing the audio landscape with the world’s first in-wall loudspeaker. However, his journey took a notable turn in 2010 as he transitioned from his role in the audio industry to dedicate himself to philanthropy. With nearly a decade of experience in charitable endeavors, Struthers has initiated three public charities aimed at making giving a cultural norm. “I believe I’ve been given a lot…there’s a lot of need out in the world,” he shared with the Business Journal, and it is this conviction that fuels his philanthropic vision.
Elephant Cooperation: A Passion for Conservation
In 2016, Struthers founded the nonprofit Elephant Cooperation to focus on elephant rescue, rehabilitation, and education about wildlife conservation. The organization operates primarily in Africa, where Struthers’s lifelong love for elephants sparked during his youth. With a reported revenue of $1.5 million in recent years, Elephant Cooperation has allocated over $350,000 in grants specifically for anti-poaching efforts in 2023 alone. Struthers envisions a world where future generations will still have the chance to witness African elephants in their natural habitats and aims to educate local communities about conservation.
Local Investments: A Commitment to Orange County
Struthers’s philanthropic reach isn’t limited to international conservation; he also invests significantly in his local community through the Sonance Foundation and Sonance Cares, formerly known as Strut Cares. These organizations contribute to local nonprofits such as the Boys and Girls Club and the Pacific Marine Mammal Center. In total, Struthers’s initiatives have donated almost $4 million over the past five years, reinforcing his commitment to improving the quality of life for those in Orange County. This dual philanthropy approach reflects his belief that both global and local issues can be effectively addressed.
The Evolution of Sonance: From Contractor to Manufacturer
Struthers’s entrepreneurial journey began shortly after graduating from Principia College in 1982. He co-acquired a small video contracting company and quickly shifted focus to multi-room audio systems—innovating solutions to integrate speakers within home architecture. This pivot led to significant growth for Sonance, which evolved from an audio contractor to a well-respected speaker manufacturer. Struthers attributes the continued success of Sonance to customers’ ongoing demand for high-quality sound solutions, showcasing how adaptability and innovation can yield remarkable results.
The Affinity for Animals: A Personal Connection to Elephants
Struthers’s passion for animals, particularly elephants, stems from early influences such as Disney’s "Dumbo" and a family trip to Africa. Witnessing elephants in their natural habitats at a young age profoundly impacted him, highlighting their intelligence and complex family structures. In his subsequent visits, Struthers has noted significant declines in elephant populations due to habitat loss and illegal poaching, which intensified his resolve to act. This personal connection to wildlife directly informs the mission of his nonprofit, embodying his desire to preserve these majestic creatures for future generations.
A Vision for the Future: Philanthropy Beyond His Lifetime
As Struthers reflects on his path and the impact of his initiatives, he expresses a hope that the company he built will continue its legacy of giving long after he is gone. The philanthropy model he established aims to ensure ongoing contributions to charitable causes through Sonance’s income. This foresight demonstrates a profound understanding of sustainability in philanthropy and business. Moreover, it aligns with the growing trend of corporate social responsibility, proving that personal values and business success can harmoniously coexist in today’s world.
Through his innovative spirit and altruistic endeavors, Scott Struthers exemplifies what it means to be a responsible entrepreneur. The successful transition from a celebrated audio innovator to a committed philanthropist not only underscores his love for elephants but also emphasizes the importance of giving back to both local and global communities. As Struthers continues to pave his path in philanthropy, he remains a beacon of hope and inspiration for future generations. For more on his initiatives, visit Elephant Cooperation and the Sonance Foundation.
