Shampoo, deodorant, toothpaste and body wash – how often do you think about these items? Maybe only as you run out and need to go buy more. But what if that wasn’t always an option? To assist individuals with limited access to items like these, one I&M group sought help to support these individuals – and make a difference far beyond a bottle of soap.
In July, the I&M Military Veterans Employee Resource Group (ERG) organized a collection to benefit Clothes for Joes, a local organization serving Veterans. The goal was to make a difference, together, and support those who need it most. With drop-off bins placed at several I&M locations, including Rockport, Ind. and Bridgman, Mich., staff got to work donating new personal hygiene products for this opportunity.
“Our group set out to make a difference for those needing someone in their corner, even if it meant simply helping them with access to basic hygiene products,” said Jesse LaFromboise, manager Distribution System. “As we collected these donations, it became evident just how willing people were to contribute and make a difference in the life of someone who could really use it. That is what is so special about I&M, we set out as a team and make a difference – together.”
And that unity from staff was critical. After 31 days of the collection, donations began returning to the Northeast Service Center to be sorted and delivered to the Clothes for Joes building. Organization of these items was especially important to ensure easy access for Veterans on Clothes for Joes’ Saturday distribution day. To accomplish both tasks, sorting on August 7 and distributing on August 17, I&M staff signed up to volunteer, not knowing just how big of an impact they could make by lending a hand.
“Often, we have a first time ‘shopper’ in our store that has nothing more than what they carried in. The appreciation and gratitude they have for what we are doing is very emotionally moving,” said Andrew Messmer with Clothes for Joes. “Some volunteers at our check-out station have been moved to tears repeatedly from it.”
Clothes for Joes was also awarded the AEP Caring Together grant, which provided additional funds for their team to purchase items critically needed by local Veterans.
The I&M Military Veterans ERG strives to promote the roles and contributions of veterans and active-duty military employees, provide professional development and networking opportunity for its members and serve as a liaison between the company and the veteran and military communities.
Read more about how we are partnering and supporting the communities we serve by visiting the community section on our website.