Issue link: http://cp.revolio.com/i/1178690
ALL IN | AD Today 2019 | 63 Over the last two years, the AD Disaster Relief Foundation - a 501(c)(3) non-profit mechanism through which the AD community can formally support one another in the event of a natural or man-made disaster – has proven to be a critical means of helping AD members in need, promoting the important value of people helping people, and making a difference in the lives of others. Through the Foundation, donors can help others by giving both in-kind donations (such as building materials, generators, cleaning supplies, etc.) as well as monetary support and can receive tax deductions for their contributions. Ted Simpson, AD Senior Vice President of Marketing, can't stress enough the value that the AD Disaster Relief Foundation brings to AD members and suppliers alike. "It's hard for most of us to imagine being forced to evacuate our home, only to return to find it uninhabitable or even gone," Simpson said. "The reality, however, is that families in our AD community will face that or a similar challenge this year – employees from all walks of life who, through no fault of their own, will find themselves in a position of need." "Just within the last two years, we've had families impacted by hurricanes, floods and wildfires," he noted, "but thanks to the generosity of our community, the Foundation has been able to offer much-needed assistance to help offset their new- found financial burden. In some cases, the money has helped secure basic needs like food and clothing, while in other cases it helped with the deposit on a new apartment or replacement vehicle." While Simpson acknowledged that AD is a fiercely competitive group that works hard to grow business and take share from the competition, "we're first and foremost a community of people who care about our employees, customers, partners and local communities," he said. "Because of our size, we're comprised of many families who could be impacted by a natural disaster, but at the same time we also have so many of us that can help." Simpson noted that it doesn't take a lot from any one person to make a difference. Ted Simpson Senior Vice President, Marketing AD "For example," he said, "in 2018, participants in the Electrical Division's AD Rewards Program donated unused points to the Foundation, which amounted to almost $10,000." Ultimately, Simpson confirmed, "the Disaster Relief Foundation helps all of us in the AD community to be our best selves and also gives us an outlet to ask for a helping hand." continued on page 65 "It's hard for most of us to imagine being forced to evacuate our home, only to return to find it uninhabitable or even gone. The reality, however, is that families in our AD community will face that or a similar challenge this year." – Ted Simpson, AD ALL IN TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE: ALL IN FOR OTHERS