Volvo Construction Equipment left its mark in the city of Asheville. As a final gesture of gratitude, local schools, churches and community organizations put a full-page “thank you” note in the Asheville Citizen-Times.
From the AB Technical Community College to the YMCA, Volvo employees were involved in a variety of community projects throughout Asheville.
“We built a home with Habitat for Humanity, and during the holiday season we put together Christmas gift boxes and collected coats for families in need,” said Chris Price, Product Marketing & Communication Specialist.
Price says it is a civic duty to give back. “As one of the major employers in the area, Volvo directly affected the people – that made us part of the community, and motivated us to get involved.
Giving back to the community is often a rewarding experience for both the giver and receiver. “Habitat for Humanity was a great experience,” Price says. “We were able to see first-hand the progression an empty lot to a finished home. It was a good feeling to know that I was helping with something worthwhile.”
Winston Leonard retired from Volvo Construction Equipment in 2009. He says he was honored by the community’s gesture. “It was a pleasure to work with a company whose support of and dedication to Asheville earned the respect of the community officials and people.”
Recently, Volvo Construction Equipment was nominated by the YMCA of Western North Carolina for this year’s Outstanding Business in Philanthropy Award. Volvo raised over $187,000 in the last six years for the YMCA. Despite the economic downturn, Volvo stayed committed to contributing to the community and even increased its funding to the YMCA to Platinum Partner level. The annual $15,000 contribution helped the YMCA provide scholarships and financial assistance.
In the nomination letter written by Dana Davis, Director of Fundraising for the YMCA, she describes Volvo’s genuine commitment to philanthropy. “Unlike many businesses with the need to ‘market’ their charitable giving with a level of recognition that overshadows the true purpose of the gift, Volvo’s intention remains true, and seeks to ensure that their gift is going to those who need it most, and not towards the expense of seeing their name in lights. Recognition is of course welcome, but their commitment in being a part of the community is demonstrated in their relationships with the organizations they serve.”
Davis says Volvo will be missed in Asheville. “For impact and social responsibility, Volvo Construction Equipment has set the bar high for other businesses in the community to follow its example. Their support and involvement in the community will take years to develop and replace.”
rachel mwombela 