During this time of year the holidays present an opportunity for us to be thankful, reflect on the positive, and appreciate our loved ones. However one of the most important aspects, that is all too often overlooked, is that of helping others. Although these efforts should not be centered around the holiday season Bartell recognizes that now is when many may need help the most. With the goal of providing adults and children alike the reassurance that good will is a real and important. Bartell and its staff have participated in many events and efforts over the past few weeks aiming at passing along the giving spirit and hopefully making this holiday season a little brighter. A few of our efforts have included;
- Shawn Lawlor, our Sales and Marketing Manager, went “behind bars” to participate in the Mohawk Valley Muscular Dystrophy Association Lock-Up event. Participants become a “jailbird” and work to raise “bail” to help families break free from muscular dystrophy and related diseases. The money raised works to fund researchers working to find breakthroughs across diseases and uncover treatments and cures while also giving kids and adults living with muscular dystrophy, ALS and related muscle-debilitating diseases the care they need. With generous gifts from Bartell employees and other private donations over $1,100 was raised.
- Our Director of Supply Chain, Ben Lunduski, was able to identify an opportunity for Bartell to donate six 18-20 pound turkeys to The United Church of Christ in Bayberry, Liverpool NY. The church delivered the birds to families in need and included other food items to create a full Thanksgiving dinner.
- With many former service members as part of the staff, the Toys for Tots campaign is one that is quite special. A collection of gifts has been organized by mechanical engineer George Perry and through the generous donations of Bartell staff and their families a collection of toys has been gathered and we hope to provide children the holiday they deserve. Toys for Tots is a program run by the United States Marine Corps Reserve which distributes toys to children whose parents cannot afford to buy them gifts for Christmas.
- Now that winter has come to the Northeast with all of its snow and cold proper clothing and food are critical. IT Specialist Jason Pare’ and Mechanical Engineer Eric Johnson have coordinated a clothing and non-perishable food drive during the month of December. The collected items will be donated to the Salvation Army and local food pantries.
Bartell and its employees take pride in not only the advanced manufacturing systems they build but in being purveyors of good corporate stewardship. We will continue to engage in efforts that spread hope, warmth, and care to those in need with the goal of providing a positive impact and inspiring others to do the same.