Giving back builds team morale, helps the community and creates a positive impact. Promo Marketing spoke to Alex Morin, executive vice president, sales and marketing, for Debco, Concord, Ontario, Canada, to learn about Gavin’s Fund—a cause Debco started in late December 2014 to help raise money for 2-year-old Gavin, who was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer. At this article’s printing, they’ve raised more than $3,300 for the cause.
Promo Marketing: Can you give a brief history of Gavin’s Fund and how it was started?
Alex Morin: Gavin’s Fund is an initiative created by Debco’s social committee. It is part of the company’s mandate and vision to support charitable causes that are dear to the hearts of our staff members. Gavin’s Fund directly benefits 2-year-old Gavin, a relative of someone on our staff. Gavin was diagnosed with neuroblastoma, a rare form of cancer. We’re raising awareness and funds to be able to assist his family with the enormous costs associated with the family’s travel to seek medical help out of the province [of Ontario].
PM: Why did Debco choose to give back?
AM: The social committee feels strongly that one of the most worthwhile things we can do as a company is to give back to people in need. Not only does it serve the need of those that can use the help, but it fosters a sense of team and a sense of purpose amongst our staff. The committee feels that this is the true essence of company culture.
PM: What has Debco done so far to help raise money for Gavin’s Fund?
AM: The social committee organized a voluntary walk to support Gavin’s cause. The idea was to donate a nominal amount and then walk around the business community as a show of solidarity and team spirit. The social committee has organized a few other events to further the cause also. They’ve done a charity auction for sports tickets (donated by the company). They’ve also organized an internal charity bingo game amongst staff. And they did a 50/50 draw.
PM: What do you like about working with Gavin’s Fund?
AM: All of the Debco employees enjoy making a tangible difference in lives of Gavin and his family. It allows all of us to be thankful that we are healthy, employed and able to share our resources with those that aren’t as fortunate as us.
PM: Do you have any advice to give to others looking to get involved in charitable work?
AM: As a team, our advice is to simply get involved. Whether it be with Gavin’s fund or with a project that’s dear to your heart, one of life’s goals is to make this world a better place. Sharing resources and giving freely are two ways that we can improve the lives of others, and ultimately our own.
PM: How can readers get involved with or contribute to Gavin’s Fund?
AM: Visit our Facebook page or our website and follow the links.
For inquiries and interest in Debco’s charity work, please contact Alex Morin at [email protected].
Want to be considered for a future edition of Community Spotlight? Contact production editor Ashley Chiaradio at (215) 238-5288 or [email protected] for a list of questions and other details.
