As the 2019 M Marketing Meeting attendees gathered for a celebratory dinner, CEO Wes Thompson highlighted the important part philanthropy plays in M’s culture.
“I’m gratified by all of the work we’ve done as a community and as individuals to make a difference,” Wes said, noting that corporate philanthropy is an investment — not an expense.
After thanking Member Firms who responded to M’s survey about philanthropy efforts, Wes shared that M chose the 2019 winners based on their engagement with their local communities.
The three Member Firms who demonstrated outstanding efforts and received the 1st Annual M Philanthropy Award are:
Additionally, M recognized Partner Carrier Pacific Life for participating in a project that brought PacLife and M team members together with the national nonprofit KaBOOM! Their combined efforts built an expansive play structure and picnic area in the Portland, Oregon, metro area.
During the dinner, Wes also announced another new tradition for M events: calling attention to a local community organization-Member Firm partnership. This year, the focus was on Camp Twin Lakes. After Walt Helms from Member Firm Nease, Lagana, Eden & Culley shared his firm’s experience with the nonprofit, M presented a $5,000 donation to contribute to the group’s child-focused efforts.
M’s national philanthropic partner, Big Brothers Big Sisters, also received praise for their work on the local front. Wes welcomed Kwame Johnson, President and CEO of BBBS of Metro Atlanta, to the stage to present a $5,000 donation on behalf of the entire M Team community.
