Our rewarding relationship with United Way
JSJ’s leadership in United Way is a reflection of our core values, to invest in businesses, people and communities for the long term. That’s why employees throughout JSJ’s businesses and the company itself contribute generously to annual United Way campaigns.
For the Greater Ottawa County United Way, the 2008-09 community campaign considered reaching 96 percent of its goal a victory during difficult times. “Our campaign coincided with the worst financial upheaval in decades, and many people in our community have been affected,” says Jeff Beswick, campaign chair. “Yet everyone who could—we estimate about 10,000 people—dug down deep and gave to help their neighbors.”
One of the individuals applauded for her hard work and ingenuity during the campaign was Elizabeth LeGrand of JSJ’s Dake Corporation in Grand Haven. She received the Joe Martella Above and Beyond Award, given to a campaign coordinator who finds new ways to emphasize the importance of, and add excitement to, the United Way campaign within his or her company.
“When Elizabeth says that she just borrowed good ideas from other JSJ companies’ HR departments, she’s being too humble”, says Dake’s General Manager Lisa VanSchelven. “Dake had a 45% increase in giving for 2008 because there was such a broad mix of low-cost activities that encouraged participation from the entire Dake team. Contributing money was appreciated. However, contributing time and talent were just as important.”
In 2009, JSJ Corporation was among top companies that received United Way’s Cappon & Bertsch Community Builder Award. This award recognizes the companies that give, advocate and volunteer within the community and on behalf of United Way on a year-round basis – including participation in Day of Caring, Community Investment and a commitment to workplace volunteering.
Campaign Chair Jeff Beswick presents United Way award to Dake's Elizabeth LeGrand