Donnelly Group Gives Back
Christmas is synonymous with giving, and in many ways Christmas at The Salvation Army is synonymous with the business of giving…giving back to those individuals and families experiencing hardship in our communities. “In a diverse community like Vancouver, the reality is that there will always be a need,” says Ming Chau, Interim Community Ministries Director at The Salvation Army Vancouver Community & Family Services. “We are positioned to respond to that need.”
Currently for our Christmas Assistance Program, The Salvation Army’s Vancouver Community and Family Services has already responded to 1061 requests from families needing support this Christmas. And of the 1061 families supported in Vancouver, 2100 are children. This number could grow before December 25 th. To help, various business-driven toy, clothing and food drives take place throughout the city in the Christmas season, although one toy drive very much stands out…the Donnelly Group’s annual staff toy drive at Republic.
The 14th Annual Event took place in early December raising over $105,000 worth of donations, including toys and cash for local children in need. The event was initiated by Jeff Donnelly, owner of the Donnelly Group, as a way to encourage staff to experience the importance of giving back. All staff (600+, and growing) are given a $50 gift card to Toys RUs (purchased by the Donnelly Group) to purchase a child’s gift. And, all purchases over $50 are matched by the Donnelly Group.
“We now also have our suppliers giving back to this event now…it has a life of its own,” says Donnelly. “Our staff is a key part of our success. They are young, fun and in a very transitional time in their lives,” adds Donnelly. “This season is about the kids. It’s a positive experience, and an annual gathering that we all look forward to.”
