5 Cool Causes Safelite Supports
Here at Safelite, we are auto glass experts by trade and benefactors by spirit. In 2005, we created the Safelite AutoGlass Foundation as the official body for our employee-run charitable organization.
The Foundation actively supports causes that focus on building stronger communities and benefitting children and families around the country. Here are five of those organizations that are near and dear to our hearts:
1. Ronald McDonald House Charities
Since 1974, Ronald McDonald House Charities have provided support and “homes away from home” for families with seriously ill children. The nonprofit now has more than 366 locations worldwide.
We’re a proud, longtime sponsor of this awesome organization. The Safelite Foundation has provided grants to branches around the country, and our employees have volunteered at local RMHC branches for many events throughout the years. From cooking meals to hosting special events, our team loves giving back.
Ronald McDonald House Charities inspires us each day to support our local communities and provide resources to those in need.
2. A Kid Again
A Kid Again is a charitable organization that allows families with children who have life-threatening illnesses to experience new adventures.
In 2017, we partnered with A Kid Again to develop a creative way to fundraise for the organization. Through the Kicks for Kids program, a donation is made to A Kid Again for every extra point or field goal made by a college football team during home games. This year, Kicks for Kids raised $26,500 for A Kid Again.
“It’s rewarding to support a great organization like A Kid Again,” said Vice President of Marketing Christina Pletnewski. “Helping families take a break from illness to build happy memories together is very meaningful.”
Over 500 families have been able to take a timeout from health issues to enjoy their time at zoos, amusement parks and more—all made possible by Kicks for Kids.
3. Boys & Girls Clubs
Boys & Girls Clubs of America has changed the lives of kids through mentorship, education and good old-fashioned fun. The Club believes that every kid has what it takes to make it big in the world—all it takes is guidance from someone who cares.
Safelite has proudly donated thousands of dollars to support the Boys & Girls Clubs. Additionally, we’ve thrown in a few extra-special surprises. In the summer of 2018, members of the Boys & Girls Club of Southern Nevada received tickets to the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series 200 at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway. Behind the wheel that day was our 2018 sponsored driver, Noah Gragson, who also calls Vegas home.
Prior to the race, the kiddos even got to enjoy a one-of-a-kind meet and greet with Noah.
“It was heartwarming to see their eyes light up as they met a hero from their hometown and found out they would be in the stands for his next race,” said Business Development Manager Nick Tsolis. “Meeting someone who has already achieved so much success at a young age is a great example to set for the kids at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Southern Nevada.”
4. Alicia’s Art Cart
Alicia’s Art Carts turn dreary hospital stays into days filled with colorful excitement. This organization provides rolling arts and crafts carts to hospitalized children and teens, allowing them to take a timeout from their serious illnesses to explore their creativity. The carts are filled with a variety of art supplies that allow them to do embroidery, collage, jewelry making and more.
In 2018, we partnered with Alicia’s Art Cart to extend the reach of this inspiring organization. This program now serves patients from coast-to-coast, providing carts to children’s hospitals. We are excited to help continue expanding the reach of this program to lift the spirits of young artists everywhere.
5. Dozens of local organizations every year
We believe that grants are an impactful way for charitable organizations to continue doing what they do best.
That’s why each year, the Safelite Foundation donates $20,000 to 10 separate charities across each of its 10 regions. That’s in addition to $175,000 distributed to each of the 10 regions each year for local leaders to support charitable organizations of their choice. Some of our Impact Grant Recipients have included the American Red Cross, Habitat for Humanity, Big Brothers Big Sisters, the Make-A-Wish Foundation, Flying Horse Farms, CASA, Utah Food Bank and many more.
The Safelite AutoGlass Foundation is the backbone to the Safelite Group family of brands. We strive each year to contribute to our local communities and our 10 million customers through charitable contributions and volunteering.