PAYING IT FORWARD: HOW LARGEMOUTH EMPLOYEES GIVE BACK
At Largemouth, we’re passionate about making an impact on our community and striking the balance between work, life and giving back. Philanthropy and community involvement are important to our employees, so we knew when we set out to sponsor the recent PRSA Southeastern District Conference, we wanted to leverage the opportunity to give back in a meaningful way. After polling our team, animal rescue was a common thread that jumped out – and many of our employees adopted their four-legged family member from local animal rescue Saving Grace. We knew helping to give a voice to the animals was a perfect fit for our company, and are excited to share we raised more than $300 in three days for Saving Grace throughout the conference by asking attendees to share #PRinthreewords.
At an individual level, our employees are involved in many philanthropic efforts, from local nonprofits to national organizations. Here’s a peek at a few organizations and initiatives our team members are passionate about, and how we spend our time giving back:
SARAH OSMENT, DIRECTOR OF STRATEGIC ACCOUNTS
Sarah currently serves as the marketing chair for the Triangle Walk to End Alzheimer’s, benefiting the Alzheimer’s Association of Central and Eastern North Carolina.
“This cause is personal to me, as I watched my Nanny and all those close to her, battle with the disease for more than 15 years. Lending my skills in social media management and public relations to help build additional support is the least I can do for an organization aiming to see the world’s first survivor.”
HOPE TORRUELLA, ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
Hope has partnered with organizations including Victory Junction, on behalf of Kyle Petty Charity Ride Across America, The Independence Fund’s Rock for Heroes Concert, and Raleigh Public Relations Society. The Raleigh Public Relations Society specifically allows Hope to have a voice in the local community’s PR scene, connect with brilliant PR pros in the area and have a platform to mentor students who are looking to enter the industry.
“These philanthropic opportunities have helped me learn more about what I do, what I can do with my PR background and the amazing things my peers have done and continue to do throughout their careers.”
JAMI SOWERS, SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
Jami understands the impact volunteering can have on both career development and personal development. Between recruiting new members to the Raleigh Chamber Young Professional’s Network and fundraising for the Raleigh Chamber, Jami’s professional volunteer opportunities provide networking opportunities to meet more people in the Raleigh area. Jami is also a communications committee member at Artspace, a brand ambassador for theSkimm and a volunteer at the SPCA of Wake County.
“These opportunities push me out of my comfort zone, whether it be through testing out my capabilities as a salesperson or serving as the primary voice in the media relations space for Artspace.”
GINA FERGIONE, ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE
Gina has always been passionate about animal welfare, and devotes her spare time to volunteering with local rescue organizations. Gina was a community ambassador for a local humane society for many years, in addition to volunteering at animal shelter events. As a community ambassador, Gina was tasked with attending local events to promote animal rescue and showcase adoptable animals, in turn enhancing her time management and communication skills.
“My time volunteering with local animal rescues provided the opportunity to network with both organizations and like-minded animal lovers. I truly enjoy seeing how my experience and communication skills can make a real impact in the lives of others and bring a smile to someone’s face – or, a wag to their tail.”
RYAN BOGER, SENIOR CONTENT STRATEGIST
Ryan volunteers with South Durham Church and helps organize events to serve the local community. One of the biggest events Ryan has worked on has been South Durham Soccer Nights, a free evening soccer camp during the summer where kids can have fun, play soccer and burn off energy. Ryan is a member of the charge and enjoys being involved in the community.
“It has taken the generous support of so many people with vastly different backgrounds and skillsets coming together for things to be successful. That’s a lesson I can take with me every day to work at Largemouth, valuing the unique roles each of my coworkers play in delivering great work to our clients.”
JORDAN LOCKHART, ACCOUNT COORDINATOR
Jordan has worked closely with St. Jude Children’s Research hospital by making valentines for children, participating in letter writing campaigns and becoming a St. Jude hero for a half-marathon. Jordan is also passionate about Relay for Life, having participated in over eight Relay for Life events.
“Beyond helping me hone my communication and time-management skills, St. Jude has really become part of my heart. No matter how you’re supporting your cause, working for something larger than yourself really lends perspective to bad days and can motivate you to be your best for others.”
The importance of giving back rings true for our entire agency. In addition to Saving Grace, our agency has given back to the community through supporting non-profit clients, such as Global War on Terror Memorial Foundation and the Kyle Petty Charity Ride, working with industry organizations such as the NC Restaurant Association, and supporting great causes through our clients, including the Circle K Fueling Our Schools campaign and United Healthcare cause programs.
Interested in learning more about philanthropic opportunities your organization can get involved in, or are you looking to highlight initiatives you are already involved with? Contact us today.
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