If you live in the South East region of the United States, chances are you are a fan of Publix grocery stores. Where else can you go grocery shopping and be treated as the most important person on the planet? Not to mention their delicious subs that has even been trending on Twitter! But Publix goes above and beyond their subs and excellent customer service. The company as a whole has a passion for the community.
The spirit of giving associated with Publix began in 1930 when the company was founded by George Jenkins. He was asked if he had not given so much away, what he thought his worth would be. To which he replied, “Probably nothing.” It was with this type of humility that Publix has been built by. They have a 40 year partnership with the Special Olympics, and even sponsor youth soccer helping children to beat obesity and learn problem-solving skills. Beyond that they give to thousands of local non-profit organizations each year. Some of their corporate campaigns include giving to: Food for Sharing, March of Dimes, and Tools for Schools.
One of the most recent campaigns was for United Way. Publix is ranked number one with United Way of Central Florida for giving. This year the Lakeland based chain pledged over 4.5 million dollars to the United Way of Central Florida. This is an 11% increase from last year’s pledges. The money goes to fund human-services programs across Polk, Highland, and Hardee counties. It’s not just the local branch that made an impact, however. This year, Publix’s 179,000 employees gave 58.7 million dollars to United Way’s nationwide. Publix is currently ranked number three for giving nationwide to the United Way. Publix has received numerous awards from the United Way and last year they were one of only three companies whose campaigns exceeded 50 million dollars.
The United Way is so pleased with the generosity of Publix that they have planned a community wide thank you for next week. Employees of Publix will receive goodies and shoppers will be greeted by employees and volunteers from the United Way holding signs expressing their thanks.
Publix is a huge inspiration to many companies in the community. Their spirit of giving is so admirable. We could all learn a few things from Publix as individuals. If we have a life time full of money and things and never lent a hand to those in need, what do we have to show?
