Before everyone heads out of the office to go last-minute gift shopping or travel home to see family, the PAN team would like to take the time to reflect on the previous year and remember how fortunate we are.
As we reflect and express gratitude for a great year, we also remember that it’s a time of year to give back and think about others – especially those who are less fortunate than we may be. We know it’s not just about the holidays, though – through PANcares, our corporate philanthropy program, employees have the opportunity to get involved with the community throughout the entire year. In 2019 specifically, PAN employees volunteered to build beds for families in severe poverty with A Bed for Every Child; helped homeless youths perfect resume and interview techniques with Covenant House NY; participated in Earth Day clean-up efforts; volunteered at local animal shelters; supported an Annual Executive Sleepout for Covenant House Orlando – and participated in a number of other volunteer activities throughout each of our offices. We’re proud of our team’s commitment to helping those around them, and are excited for the work they’ll continue to do in each of our communities.
In addition to volunteer efforts, PAN also gives back monetarily by making donations to charities that are important to our employees and clients. This year, in lieu of sending gifts to our clients, PAN donated to two charities that are especially important to us – Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida and Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Florida. Both nonprofit organizations admirably serve the Central Florida community and support programs that improve the lives and well-being of families and children. Through food and fundraising drives, volunteer efforts and advocacy programs, Second Harvest Food Bank is executing on its mission to create hope and nourish lives through a powerful hunger relief network. Ronald McDonald House Charities directly supports family health and well-being, with a cornerstone program – Ronald McDonald House – which provides a home away from home for families with children receiving treatment at medical facilities in Orlando.
These organizations are especially near and dear to our team’s hearts, as our beloved colleague and friend Katie Blair was involved with supporting both organizations and their missions. Sadly, Katie passed away on Nov. 1 this year, and we could think of no better way to honor her memory than to donate to two community causes she believed in wholeheartedly. Katie was an inspirational leader and compassionate community member who led our Orlando team with fierce passion, strong ambition and selfless ideals. While PAN and Katie’s friends and family continue to support her husband and two daughters through a GoFundMe campaign, we know that Katie would also want us to reflect and give back to others in need. That is why we chose these two deserving organizations, which will greatly benefit from a donation in Katie’s memory, and put the funds to good use within the Orlando community.
During this season of giving, we’re proud to give back to those in need with volunteer opportunities and donations that support admirable organizations who are working to improve our communities. We hope our clients appreciate PAN’s commitment to giving back with this year’s donations, and we look forward to continuing our involvement in 2020.
From our PAN family to yours, we wish you all Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year!
