In support of our corporate philanthropy mission, JM Family associates are always ready to volunteer to make our community a better place. Whether it’s slipping on a pair of work gloves, lacing up walking shoes, mentoring an at-risk child or supporting an essential needs drive – making a difference in our community is at the heart of our associates. As a company, in 2009, 679 associates volunteered more than 4,300 hours at a variety of events. At JM Family, as we reach out to those in need, we hope to inspire others to do the same.
We know that together a difference can be made in a day. Through our What A Difference A Day Makes initiative, we partner with non-profit organizations with which we have strong relationships to develop unique one-day volunteer opportunities for our associates. Each project is held on a Saturday and addresses a specific community need that has a significant impact.
What A Difference A Day Makes projects include the following examples:
Our partnership with Habitat for Humanity offers associates in many of JM Family’s major business locations the opportunity to change the lives of children and families by building houses into homes. Our company’s builds include associate volunteers working closely with members of our management team. Together, we lift trusses, shingle roofs or paint a child’s first bedroom – whatever it takes to get the job done. As a result, teamwork and camaraderie are taken to a whole new level.
In 2009, JM Family associates collected more than 27,000 pounds of food to help feed hungry families. Through company-wide food drives, we hope to exceed this amount and help even more families in need this year. Associates also volunteer with local non-profit agencies to help sort donated food items to ensure prompt delivery to reduce hunger in the community.
Removing harmful vegetation, helping to plant native species, and cleaning up waterways and beaches are just a few ways that JM Family associates join together to do our part to help preserve our environment for future generations.