Being a team member at Barron Collier Companies encompasses more than a job title. Employees with Barron Collier Companies have the opportunity to participate in committees as a way to foster relationships with other coworkers, learn more about the Naples community, develop professional skills, and achieve and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
The Philanthropy Committee includes a group of civic-minded team members from various departments in the company who are looking to give back to Collier County and to fully understand the impact that the company has on Collier County. Throughout the years, Barron Collier Companies has donated to many charities and organizations, an attribute that was passed down from the founder, Barron Gift Collier.
The Philanthropy Committee’s purpose is described as a group that will work to educate employees about each charitable organization and encourage employees to establish and maintain a presence in the community. Jennifer Levy, accountant for BCC and co-chair of the committee, comments, “It means so much to be able to help others and through the committee and the employees, we are able to do more than one person could. Working for a company that encourages their employees to get involved and make a difference in the community is very satisfying.”
The Philanthropy Committee has hosted events to benefit various organizations. Ramona Stockman, an accountant for BCC and chair of the committee, adds “Some of my favorite fundraisers have been collecting shoes for Laces of Love, the Christmas Tree select-an-ornament for children at Youth Haven, helping the elderly at Heritage Healthcare, and writing thank you letters for Honor Flight.” Honor Flight was also one of Jennifer’s most rewarding philanthropy experiences. She adds, “If I had to choose a favorite it would be the Honor Flight. I feel we have a responsibility to our veterans to show our appreciation for their sacrifices.”
A new charity is selected each quarter by the committee, and any funds or goods raised or donated during that quarter are then presented to the charity. Oftentimes, Barron Collier Companies provides a matching monetary donation, expanding the impact even further. Jeans Friday, a popular event with team members, gives everyone the ability to dress down on casual Friday and wear denim with a suggested donation of $1 to the quarterly charity. Barron Collier Companies matches Jean Friday donations each quarter as well.
Employees are given three paid days per year to volunteer for a non-profit organization of their choice. Priscylla Oliva, the executive assistant to the CEO, has volunteered for the David Lawrence Center benefitting mental health awareness. “The time I’ve been able to spend with DLC has opened my eyes to the need in our county for mental health programming and assistance. If I didn’t have the time away from my daily work in the office, I may not have had the opportunity to learn about this amazing non-profit. I appreciate working with a company that supports helping their local community.”
In addition to the committee’s efforts, the Barron Collier Jr Foundation is an established fund that focuses on giving back to educational, children’s, healthcare and environmental causes and charities. Learn more about the Barron Collier Jr Foundation here.
