Celebrating 75 Years of Community Service
Kitchell is proudly celebrating its 75th anniversary, reflecting on a rich history characterized by community impact and service. The company's roots can be traced back to the vision of its founder, Sam Kitchell, who believed in the importance of building strong communities in tandem with delivering exceptional projects. This commitment continues to inspire employees and drive company initiatives.
Employee Involvement and Volunteer Events
As part of the anniversary celebrations, Kitchell is launching a Founder's Day campaign, featuring 36 volunteer events across four states. This initiative is rooted in the values that have helped shape the company since its inception. Employees engage in various activities intended to uplift and give back to the communities they are part of, echoing Sam's principles even after 75 years.
Honoring a Legacy
President and CEO Wendy Cohen shared, "Sam Kitchell believed that building strong communities was just as important as building great projects." Today, his belief remains a cornerstone of Kitchell's operations. Each year, the Founder's Day serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring spirit of giving back.
Core Areas of Impact
This year's campaign spans six main areas: health and wellness, hunger relief, housing and shelter, animal welfare, education and youth development, and environmental stewardship. Each of these focus areas was chosen to address the pressing needs in communities across the company’s reach, demonstrating Kitchell's holistic approach to service.
A Tradition of Service
The essence of Founder's Day is reflected in Kitchell's culture of service, where employees contribute over 1,250 volunteer hours to various nonprofit organizations. By deciding together which nonprofits to support, employees can give their time and resources to initiatives that resonate with them personally.
Fostering Community Connections
Community service and engagement stand at the heart of Kitchell's mission. From assembling care packages for hospitals to supporting local shelters, nearly 400 employees unite to effect positive change in their communities. This collective effort not only addresses immediate needs but also fosters long-lasting relationships between the company and the communities it serves.
Empowering Through Engagement
As Dosayra Brumley, Senior Marketing and Community Engagement Specialist, noted, "Every Founder's Day, I'm inspired by the impact we create when we come together." The essence of these gatherings is more than just volunteering; it's about building a history and a connection with the community. This shared experience propels the desire to serve for years to come.
Giving Back for Future Generations
Known for its culture of generosity, Kitchell remains one of the top corporate givers in the construction and real estate development sectors. While celebrating its past, the company is also focused on ensuring that its legacy of service continues for future generations. Cohen emphasized that Founder's Day is a promise to deepen partnerships and expand their impact in the coming years.
The Spirit of Founder's Day
Together, Kitchell's initiatives on Founder's Day symbolize a commitment to turning time, energy, and resources into meaningful contributions that strengthen communities year after year. This dedicated approach underlines the company’s mission and reinforces the importance of community involvement in the corporate ethos.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of Kitchell's Founder's Day?
Founder's Day marks the company's anniversary and serves as a platform for employees to engage in community service, reflecting the values set by founder Sam Kitchell.
How does Kitchell choose the nonprofits it supports?
Employees collaborate to select nonprofits that are meaningful to them, ensuring their volunteer efforts align with pressing community needs.
What areas of service does Kitchell focus on?
The company targets areas such as health and wellness, hunger relief, housing, animal welfare, education, and environmental stewardship.
How many volunteer hours do Kitchell employees contribute?
Employees collectively contribute over 1,250 volunteer hours, actively participating in a range of community-focused events.
How does Kitchell view its impact on the community?
Kitchell believes that fostering strong community relationships is fundamental to its success and is committed to creating lasting change through volunteer efforts.
