Charitable giving lasts a lifetime

As part of its 2008 Charitable Giving program, which focuses on 'Doing Well by Doing Good', PR Newswire employees voted on charities located in each area where the company has substantial operations. As a part of the program, employees volunteer their time to the organization as a group and the company makes cash donation. The Ronald McDonald House of Cleveland and the Greater Cleveland Habitat for Humanity were among the charities selected by PR Newswire's Cleveland office, and have already benefited from PR Newswire's volunteers and resources.

"The Ronald McDonald House relies on devoted volunteers to provide a supportive home and other resources for children who need special medical attention and their families," said Mary Jo Pecek, family services assistant, Ronald McDonald House of Cleveland. "PR Newswire's local staff has graciously given their time by lending a helping hand at events for the families staying at our facilities."

To date, PR Newswire employees assisted the Ronald McDonald House of Cleveland by hosting a dinner for the families of sick children being treated at local Cleveland hospitals. At the event, PR Newswire volunteers barbequed food and interacted with the families. In the Cleveland office of PR Newswire, employees continue to help the Ronald McDonald House of Cleveland by collecting soda can tabs to help them fundraise. Additionally, to further serve the 37 families staying at the Ronald McDonald House of Cleveland on any given night, PR Newswire employees post and collect items from the children's wish lists, which keep the house stocked with essential items.

The Ronald McDonald House of Cleveland isn't the only organization benefiting from the good will of PR Newswire employees. Thus far, PR Newswire employees have participated in two "Build Days" with the Greater Cleveland Habitat for Humanity. In the next few weeks, there are several days planned where PR Newswire volunteers will assist the Greater Cleveland Habitat for Humanity on site, laying gravel and helping with handy work.