May 2, 2014
Local Publix managers recently presented a check for $137,375 to United Way of the Greater Clarksville Region for the 2013-14 Annual Community Campaign. The total, a 20% increase over last year’s giving, represents total employee contributions of $76,075, as well as Publix Supermarkets Charities’ matching contribution of $61,300.
Local employee support reflects Publix’s strong charitable spirit with an extraordinary level of campaign participation and average annual contribution per associate. Among 271 employees between the two stores, 238 contributed to the campaign and 30 of those were Cumberland Society leadership donors, each giving $1000 or more. As United Way of the Greater Clarksville Region’s second largest contributing workplace partner, Publix sets the bar for total workplace commitment.
Vince Hartley, Tiny Town Road Store Manager and local United Way Board Member, shares this dedication. “We are very excited to give back to our community. Our founder, George Jenkins, would be proud of how our associates have embraced the culture and mission of Publix Supermarkets to be involved as responsible citizens in our communities. I could not ask to work with a more caring group of people.” Valerie Guzman, an employee of the Tiny Town Road store, served as a Loaned Executive for United Way in the fall of 2013. In this role, Publix also contributed her full-time service to United Way for twelve weeks to strengthen local campaign and resource development.
“Visit a Publix Super Market and you will be immersed in its sense of community. From a warm, friendly greeting to the tremendous impact of their collective support, Publix and its associates are committed to bettering the lives of others. Because of their generosity, United Way is able to advance the success of local programs meeting critical human needs. As a voice for those whose lives will be rewritten with hope, opportunity and change, I extended immeasurable gratitude to our local Publix champions,” said Ginna Holleman, local United Way CEO.
In addition to campaign support, both stores devote considerable time and resources to partner with United Way as dedicated volunteers and community advocates. During the holidays, the stores collect toys and adopt several families in need. “I am extremely proud of our Associates at the Madison Street Publix who consistently demonstrate to our community the gift of giving. Our culture at Publix encourages us to be responsible citizens in our community. Our generous giving is one small part of that responsibility. All of us appreciate being able to do our part for this great community called Clarksville,” commented Norman Rubio, Madison Street Store Manager.
United Way of the Greater Clarksville Region works to advance the common good by providing financial support to local nonprofits whose programs focus on education, health and income initiatives. For more information on workplace giving campaigns or volunteer opportunities, please call United Way of the Greater Clarksville Region at 931-647-4291 or visit the website, www.liveunitedclarksville.org.
