In June, just as the school year was coming to an end, I spent a few days with Pinball Clemons packing kits of school supplies and handing them out to students to ensure that they would have what they need to start school in September. We were both proud to work with Avery in this initiative called #AveryGivesBack.
I’m a big believer in giving what you can and the idea that we can make a difference using the formula ISSUE + GIFT = CHANGE. #AveryGivesBack is a great example of a company doing just that. Avery knew that not all students are able to afford to buy the school supplies that they need → ISSUE. Avery produces school supplies → GIFT. #AveryGivesBack is an initiative that packed and distributed 7500 kits of school supplies to students across Canada → CHANGE.
Pinball and I spent a day at the Avery warehouse in Whitby, packing up the kits and it was so awesome because everyone who worked there got involved. The employees were given the opportunity to sign up to join in the packing and we all worked together in an assembly line. What I remember most about that day was how fun it was and how good everyone felt to be doing something that we all felt so good about.
A few weeks later the kits began to make their way across the country to schools with students that needed them the most. Many of the schools that received the kits are schools that Pinball supports through his foundation, the Michael Pinball Clemons Foundation (MPCF). Pinball and I spent a day visiting some of the local schools to hand out the kits and at one of the schools, we spoke at an assembly to all of the students and teachers.
What I remember most about that day is talking with the students as we were handing out the kits. There were more than a few students who told us that they had never had a brand new binder. I left the school that day feeling really good about #AveryGivesBack knowing that they would have their own supplies to start off a new school year in September. When students have the tools and resources they need, they are empowered to learn and succeed.
“If you first start by making good decisions and apply yourself in school, get yourself a good education, that will take you wherever you desire to go.”
Pinball Clemons
In the days and weeks to come, you will see the video that was created from our time with #AveryGivesBack on social media. Avery will be donating $1 per share up to $5000 to MPCF in support of the education projects that they support. So, we’ve come full circle. If you believe in the idea of give what you can, visit Avery on Facebook and Instagram and give a share. Together we can make a difference in the lives of students by empowering them to reach their fullest potential.
On behalf of myself, Pinball, MPCF and Avery, Thank You!
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