“No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted.” – Aesop
A perfect inspirational quote for the volunteers and charitable organizations that selflessly give their time, energy and resources to those in need. But these acts of kindness are not “small” by any stretch. Rather, organizations in our community are devoted to doing “big,” life-changing things for those who need help the most.
In 2011, we started the MaKING a Difference program as a way to “help the helpers” in our community. We encourage our team members to take time out of their work weeks to volunteer their time at local charities that are truly MaKING a Difference in the lives of so many.
“I love the opportunity to help out those in the community during working hours.”
From cancer research to supporting veterans to helping youth overcome addiction, there are hundreds of charities and thousands of volunteers that rely on the support of their communities to continue providing tireless, selfless service to others.
We’d like to spotlight a few of our Making a Difference partners and encourage you to learn more about each organization’s powerful mission:
Minnesota Ovarian Cancer Alliance (MOCA)
MOCA provides support to women who have been diagnosed with ovarian cancer as well as help their family and loved ones cope. They also raise awareness and conduct research for ovarian cancer, which affects 21,000 women each year.
Minnesota Adult and Teen Challenge
For more than 30 years, the Minnesota Adult and Teen Challenge has helped young Minnesotans face and overcome their alcohol and drug addictions. They provide Licensed Treatment, faith-based Long-Term Recovery, Outpatient treatment, and many other programs.
Give to MN Adult & Teen Challenge
Salvation Army
The Salvation Army’s mission statement is simple: “to meet human need wherever, whenever, and however we can.” While people may know them by their thrift stores located nationwide, they offer aid and services on a variety of fronts that include disaster relief, providing food and shelter for the needy, fighting human trafficking and so much more.
The Arc Minnesota
Twin Cities residents will know The Arc by their chain of thrift stores, “Arc’s Value Village,” located throughout the metropolitan area. Sales of donated items at these stores help Arc fund their primary mission: to protect and promote the human rights of of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, providing support to them and their families while promoting inclusion in the community.
American Red Cross
This nationwide organization saves lives through blood donations and First Aid, CPR, and numerous other training and certification programs. Every 2 seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood, and the Red Cross estimates that a single donation will ultimately save up to 3 lives.
United Way
The United Way is a global organization whose mission is to “improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of communities around the world to advance the common good.” In the Greater Twin Cities area, this means collecting donations and recruiting volunteers for projects such as filling backpacks with school supplies for children in need.
Adopt a Highway
This one hits home for us, and it’s an organization that every supply chain company should volunteer time at. Adopt a Highway is valuable program that keeps our local highways clean and free of litter and trash. More than 50 billion pieces of litter are discarded on U.S. roads each year, and we are happy to help do our part.
Fun fact: since 2012, King has had an Adopt a Highway sign in Blaine on the side of HWY 65. Look for it next time you’re on the road!
Eagle’s Healing Nest
There are about 21.8 million veterans in the U.S., many of which suffers the invisible wounds of war. Eagle’s Healing Nest provides a temporary home for those returning from war, helping to foster purpose and direction as veterans transition back to their everyday lives.
“It feels good to help others and we are having fun at the same time!”
Pinky Swear Foundation
Pinky Swear Foundation is dedicated to helping children with cancer and their families by providing support and unique family programs. To date, they have worked with more than 15,000 families to help them cope with and get through one of the hardest times of their lives.
Give to Pinky Swear Foundation
The Food Group
The Food Group fights hunger and malnourishment throughout our community. They provide food and nutritional support to families across 32 counties in Minnesota and Wisconsin.
Volunteer with King
We encourage all our employees, carriers, clients and partners to volunteer time whenever they can. To learn how you can help us give back, or how you can become a client or partner, contact us today.
Joel Rice