Article by Randi Steele
Today, there are many news sources available that list the numerous benefits of corporate philanthropy. We know that it creates brand awareness in the business sector, captures the wonderful feeling of helping and supporting others during difficult times, and can guide potential job candidates to a company, especially candidates who value social responsibility in regards to employer requirements. Those benefits aside, supporting philanthropy in the workplace can distill down to forging a cohesiveness with the existing employee base, and it is upon this premise that Global, A 1st Flagship dedicates itself to support local and national causes, and places philanthropy among one of their consistent priorities and achievements.
The company has always had a strong presence in terms of giving back to local communities that the company affiliates reside in. President and CEO Sherri Bovino, and her corporate office team have contributed to the United Way for the past 15 years, not to mention various hospitals in the local Orange County area. In addition, some sites such as Global’s Philadelphia and Bremerton job sites, have also partnered in recent years with local non-profit organizations such as Philabundance and Bremerton Foodline, to assist in ending hunger in those communities.
When COVID hit, the corporation doubled down on their efforts. Not only did Global organize additional fundraising efforts in their corporate office location of Irvine, California, but Bovino partnered with teams at the various satellite locations, asking for their input as to specific organizations in their area to support. Once an organization was selected by individual centers, Sherri vowed to personally match all donations, dollar for dollar. Employees listened and responded enthusiastically. Achieving the mark of 100% site location participation, the Global corporation was able to raise a grand total of $23,000 for various charities across the United States, from Hawaii Food Bank to locally operated Bracken’s Kitchen, who, through food recovery, culinary training and food delivery via their red truck named Betsy, provides healthy meals to the needy in Orange County.
If one reviews the Global website (www.globalfirstflagship.com), it states clearly that at the organization “our people are our most important asset.” Global’s most recent philanthropic efforts reflect this; connecting with their employees across the United States to contribute to regional organizations that individuals hold dear to their hearts, reflecting the care that they show for their staff, and the acknowledgement of supporting a diverse range of non-profit groups. One might even go so far as to say that Global believes that the human race, not just employees, are their most valuable asset. Based on their strong charitable presence in the feeding, clothing and care of their fellow man, that statement rings true.