United Way partners honored at Lightning game
Tampa Bay – March 9, 2009. United Way of Tampa Bay recently presented the Spirit of Tampa Bay Awards and Million Dollar Workplace Awards to local companies for their exceptional commitment and investment to United Way.
The Spirit of Tampa Awards are based on number of employees—less than 100; 101 to 499; 500 to 999; and, more than 1,000 employees. All candidates submitted an application and were rated by a volunteer panel focusing on three criteria: campaign performance, communications excellence and volunteer support. The following companies were recognized for their excellence in the Workplace Campaign:
· Less than 100 employees: PAR (PAR Psychological Assessment Resources) had 100 percent employee participation and a 50 percent company match on employee donations. PAR was also instrumental in United Way Children’s Book Drive, providing an additional $10,000 match;
· 101 to 499 employees: Holland and Knight LLP— With the leadership support of Managing Partner Brad Kimbro, Holland and Knight raised $7,000 over their goal formulating unique fundraisers, including mini-events such as bake sales and silent auctions;
· 500 to 999 employees: The Mosaic Company continues to set the bar in corporate philanthropy as they raised nearly $500,000 for United Way and became a three-time Spirit of Tampa Bay Award recipient;
· More than 1,000 employees: TECO Energy, Inc. contributed more than $540,000 and an additional in-kind gift of $50,000. TECO Energy builds a caring community through their financial support and high level volunteer leaders to serve on campaign committees;
"It's through amazing partnerships like these that we can continue to make a difference to so many in our community," said Diana Baker, President and CEO, United Way of Tampa Bay.
Whereas Spirit of Tampa Bay Award winners provided the varied and unique support for United Way, two companies stood out as steady and consistent contributors. The Million Dollar Workplaces awards went to Publix Super Market Charities and Raymond James.
In 2008, Publix contributed more than $3.5 million during their Workplace Campaign. In addition to their financial support, hundreds of Publix Employees volunteered on their own time to participate in United Way’s Day of Caring, as well asBook Drive "Sortopalooza" following the organization’s campaign kickoff.In addition, local Publix stores chose to sponsor families for the holidays.
Last year, a resounding 91 percent of Raymond James’ associates donated to United Way’s campaign, resulting in $1.3 million. Raymond James hosts United Way trainings, volunteers in various United Way activities, andis an active supporter of United Way fundraising efforts beyond the campaign.
"Publix and Raymond James have both been recognized for its philanthropy and community support by many organizations. We are proud to partner with these outstanding companies and their associates each year," Baker said.
Spirit of Tampa Bay recipient companies were recognized for their successes on the ice at the Feb. 19 Tampa Bay Lightning game. The Lightning honored the companies by announcing their awards at an intermission and hosting the winning companies in a luxury suite for the game. Team owner Oren Koules greeted and thanked all winning companies.
