Doing Good (Together) in the Year That Was

As we reflect back on 2014 in its fleeting days, one theme keeps popping up: The number of people and organizations we helped in the past year, thanks to the generosity of all our customers, partners and friends.

Good deeds are rarely solo acts. Working together, we accomplish great things and make a difference in our community.

Before we state “bigger and better things are ahead in 2015” (even though they are), permit us a moment to reminisce on some mutual charitable high points of 2014:

• The C.A.R.I.N.G. Group Elmbrook, a coalition of local businesses and consumers, donated more than $2,000 to three schools in the Elmbrook School District at year’s end. The money is given to the schools to use entirely at their discretion. GMS is proud to be a part of this organization, which holds tremendous potential to be a continual source of additional support for our schools. If you sign up as a C.A.R.I.N.G. Group member, 5 percent of every dollar you spend with GMS (and other businesses in the program) will be donated to the schools of your choice.
• Our annual GMAC Benefit Golf Outing raised $20,000 for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and the Autism Society of Southeastern Wisconsin. This event drew more than 220 participants. Yes, it was a tremendous amount of work (it always is). As usual, we got by with a little help from our friends (to paraphrase a famous Beatles line). No, make that a lot of help. Many, many people volunteered time and donated silent auction items. An event like this doesn’t happen on its own. Considering the two great causes that benefit, though, we’re always thankful it does.
• One of our dump trucks made a unique delivery in November: more than 4,000 pounds of food, diapers, cleaning products and personal hygiene items to the New Berlin Food Pantry. GMS partnered with 10 other local businesses in Brookfield, New Berlin and Elm Grove, WI, to collect the goods. The pantry director said it was the single largest donation ever received. That made us feel good – and it should make you feel good, too.

Please allow a short interlude of self-indulgence: GMS will once again be applying for a national community service award through ActionCOACH, our business coaching partner. Our company was a finalist for the honor last year – we’re crossing our fingers that, given everything accomplished in 2014 with our many partners, the next try will be a winner.

If so, we’ll give full credit to all who joined us in these achievements. Happy New Year, and thank you for making 2014 memorable for all the right reasons.