Practicing corporate citizenship is benefitting businesses of every size, but what is the best way to have an impact? When it comes to engaging in the community, together is always better. The Partner for Success panel at the inaugural Corporate Citizenship Forum discussed the importance of building relationships to add the most value to your business and the community.
Carolyn Mentesana from the Arlington Tomorrow Foundation moderated the Partner for Success panel. The panel featured businesses that are community leaders because of their meaningful relationships with non-profits. During the panel, Laurel Carroll from L3Harris Technologies and Tillie Burgin from Mission Arlington discussed the relationship between their organizations. Jeff Salavarria from Frost Bank and Heidi Valdez Hardy from the YMCA also talked about their mutually beneficial partnership.
L3HARRIS Technologies AND MISSION ARLINGTON – L3 Harris was motivated to give back to its city and spread goodwill. They chose to help Mission Arlington because 97% of every dollar goes directly to those in need. Whether Mission Arlington is providing food, dental care, or making sure families have a magical holiday season, they are a force for good.
L3 Harris Technologies began by providing toys and school supplies to Mission Arlington. Today, their relationship has grown. As an engineering company, L3 Harris Technologies uses its logistics to help Mission Arlington continue to provide resources to the community. L3 is a dependable partner, known for their ability to organize quickly. Tillie commended L3 Technologies for delivering a truckload of food within a day when Mission Arlington’s pantry was empty. L3 Harris Technologies has also benefitted from its relationship with Mission Arlington.
Laurel said that social responsibility improved recruitment, employee engagement and retention. After volunteering and learning about Mission Arlington, employees became genuinely passionate about giving back to the community. She also stressed that goodwill is a valuable asset to businesses.
FROST BANK AND THE YMCA – The YMCA is so much more than your neighborhood gym. The YMCA is a non-profit that focuses on youth development, social responsibility and healthy living. They offer a safe place for kids to play, learn and grow. Heidi from the YMCA stresses that they do not turn away families for their inability to pay.
The values of Frost Bank aligns with the YMCA’s mission to support local communities. Frost Bank’s employees are motivated to give back and they volunteer at the YMCA regularly. Through Frost Bank’s support, the YMCA hosts its annual meeting. Frost Bank has employees that develop their skills and grow as a leader by becoming members of YMCA’s board. The YMCA values Frost Bank’s support. They have built a relationship of trust, which is why the YMCA chooses Frost Bank for its financial needs.
The Partner for Success Panel showcased businesses that partner with non-profits to strengthen their impact. If you have a similar story to share, please contact the Chamber.