The holiday season is upon us. While it’s easy to get swept up with the hustle and bustle of the holidays and year-end tasks, it’s also important to remember to slow down, spend time with family, and give back when and where you can.

Here are a few ways our team gives back during the holiday season.

Toys for Tots

Our team has participated in Toys for Tots for many years. 2022 marks the 5th year that Amy Wise, Lou-Rich Customer Service Supervisor has organized the event. “Having benefitted from programs like Toys for Tots as a kid myself, I really enjoy keeping this program going for the current generation of kids in the community. You never know who around you might need help during the holidays. Toys for Tots may not be what us adults consider a NEED, but it can be everything to that child that wakes up anxious about whether or not there will be presents under their tree,” stated Amy.

Each of our facilities had an area to drop off toys and we were able to donate 3 full boxes and approximately $350 in cash this year. The donations will go directly to children in our community.

Winter Gear Drive

This November through December our team participated in a Winter Gear Drive through the United Way. Drop boxes were located throughout our facilities and employees were encouraged to donate new or gently used winter coats, hats, gloves, and boots.

Our local United Way works closely with area schools to distribute winter gear and to create a list of items most-needed. This season, our employee-owners donated cash, as well as 2 full boxes of winter gear. The boxes were approximately 3’ tall and 2’ wide and had a variety of items ranging from kids’ sizes to adults.

WeCare Fund

Throughout the year, various fundraisers, bake sales, raffles, and events are held to raise money for the Innovance WeCare Fund. The fund was developed by a volunteer group of Innovance employees to help employee-owners and their families (active employees from ALMCO, Lou-Rich, MFI, and Panels Plus) during difficult times or unforeseen circumstances.

The WeCare fund also provides support to Innovance families in need during the holiday season. The fund is used to sponsor “Adopt-A-Family,” where employee-owners anonymously nominate Innovance families in need. Support is provided to families by supplying food, gift cards, gifts for the children, and other means of support.

We wish you and your team a very Happy Holiday season and a peaceful and prosperous New Year!