Community Spotlight: Debco

Giving back builds team morale, helps the community and creates a positive impact. Promo Marketing spoke to Alex Morin, executive vice president, sales and marketing, for Debco, Concord, Ontario, Canada, to learn about Gavin’s Fund—a cause Debco started in late December 2014 to help raise money for 2-year-old Gavin, who was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer. At this article’s printing, they’ve raised more than $3,300 for the cause.

Promo Marketing: Can you give a brief history of Gavin’s Fund and how it was started?

Alex Morin: Gavin’s Fund is an initiative created by Debco’s social committee. It is part of the company’s mandate and vision to support charitable causes that are dear to the hearts of our staff members. Gavin’s Fund directly benefits 2-year-old Gavin, a relative of someone on our staff. Gavin was diagnosed with neuroblastoma, a rare form of cancer. We’re raising awareness and funds to be able to assist his family with the enormous costs associated with the family’s travel to seek medical help out of the province [of Ontario].

PM: Why did Debco choose to give back?

AM: The social committee feels strongly that one of the most worthwhile things we can do as a company is to give back to people in need. Not only does it serve the need of those that can use the help, but it fosters a sense of team and a sense of purpose amongst our staff. The committee feels that this is the true essence of company culture.

PM: What has Debco done so far to help raise money for Gavin’s Fund?

AM: The social committee organized a voluntary walk to support Gavin’s cause. The idea was to donate a nominal amount and then walk around the business community as a show of solidarity and team spirit. The social committee has organized a few other events to further the cause also. They’ve done a charity auction for sports tickets (donated by the company). They’ve also organized an internal charity bingo game amongst staff. And they did a 50/50 draw.