Corporate Philanthropy
Posted on February 15, 2009 by Randy Maiers
A cold Sunday afternoon in February is a great opporunity to come into the office, put a movie into the DVD for two of my three kids, and play catch up with the pile of work on my desk.
I’ve been thinking lately about how many people overlook, or don’t seem to notice the generosity of our local businesses, and the impact they have when they support programs, projects and events in our communities. Especially in these difficult times, we need to support and recognize those businesses who realize the importance of giving back.
Late last year I finally decided to buy my wife a new diamond ring. I’d been thinking about it for the last few years, and had been saving up my pennies. When it came time to begin seriously shopping for her surprise, I had a wide selection of quality jewelry stores to choose from. However, I decided to buy her ring from Coughlin Jewelers in St. Clair, formerly American Diamond Importers, because of their generosity in supporting local events and organizations.
And speaking of St. Clair, Cargill Salt recently sent in a $10,000 gift to support the 2009 “Back to School” events that are held in St. Clair, Algonac, Yale and Port Huron.
The Back to School events have drawn an amazing level of support from people, other nonprofits, and the business world, including significant financial support from Chase Bank and LaSalle Bank (now Bank of America).
Speaking of banks, one of the leading corporate donors over the last several years has been Citizens First. They recently made a nice gift to support “Chilly Fest” in downtown Port Huron and have their name on the pottery studio at Studio 1219. Another name which has played a prominent role at Studio 1219 is Acheson. Jim Acheson of course, who derived his forturne in the business world from Acheson Colloids, a company that has a long, long history of corporate philanthropy.
These examples off the top of my head are just a fraction of the corporate generosity that flows throughout our region. We all need to take more time to notice, appreciate, and support those companies that believe a successful business is more than just a personal, fianncial profit.
