Employees across the country pitch in for good causes
Irving, Texas, September 15, 2011 – The Huntington Hotel Group is “doing well by doing good” to reference a Ralph Waldo Emerson quote. The management and development company and their staff across the country believe in supporting local causes. It’s a philosophy passed down from the top and embraced at all levels. “Corporate social responsibility may be a current trend, but I’ve always believed in giving back and providing support for causes I believe in, “ says Kevin Keefer, Cofounder and Principal.
The Courtyard by Marriott in downtown Silver Spring hosted a family involved in the Wounded Warrior Project. A veteran returning from Afghanistan for treatment at Walter Reed Army Hospital was a huge fan of the Cleveland Browns. Hotel General Manager David Shoshan secured a football for him signed by Colt McCoy and a Brown flag. The soldier was so touched, he promised to exchange the flag for the one flown by his platoon in Afghanistan – with two bullet holes in it. That’s going to be sent to the Browns’ office. “It’s the least I could do to thank him for supporting our county. The sacrifice he and other soldiers have made for our country need to be highlighted and rewarded,” continued Mr. Shoshan.
The Hilton Garden Inn Arlington/Shirlington near Washington, D.C. brought Santa and Mrs. Claus in for a visit to support the Arlington Food Assistance Center. Families that brought donations for the county’s food pantry were treated to a buffet breakfast and a chance to whisper gift ideas into Santa’s ear.
Susan Perez, General Manager of Courtyard/Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott in Dallas, tells us that the hotel has supported the Annual Toy Drive for Lakewest Head Start School in Dallas since 2004. They donate toys for infants to preschool aged children. “The most fun is going to hand out the toys. The kids get so excited,” she tells us. They also send staff to read to the children as part of the Lakewest Head Start program. In 2005 her staff stepped up to donate money, food and time working in donation centers in response to Hurricane Katrina. And on September 11 anniversaries they serve food to the local fire and police departments. In addition, some of the staff welcome returning troops at DFW airport. Others raise funds for the Children’s Miracle Network.
The San Diego Airport/Liberty Station Courtyard by Marriott and Homewood Suites by Hilton hotels are involved in charities too. They sponsored the Autism Speaks walk, supplying water and encouragement to participants of the 5K fundraising walk. They also donated 100 fleece blankets to the Chilrden’s hospital.
The staff and company headquarters support a number of charities as well. There’s the annual book drive to supply reading materials to local retirement homes, and the coat and blanket drive to provide warmth to needy families, and donation to St. Judes. At Christmas they support a local charity that gives two worthy women each a basketful of gift cards and goodies.
The entire company believes in giving back to the community. It starts at the top and is encouraged throughout the organization. “We want to be known as people who support worthy organizations with our time as well as th donations. It’s part of our company core values, and we are proud of every life we touch,” concluded Kevin Keefer, principal of the Huntington Hotel Group.
About Huntington Hotel Group
Huntington Hotel Group develops and manages premium brand select service hotels, operating a portfolio of more than 2,000 rooms. In addition to developing, owning and operating hotels, Huntington Hotel Group provides operating and asset management services for hotel owners through its affiliates. For more information, please visit www.huntingtonhotelgroup.com. For more information, contact Donna Hegdahl (972)7173500 x222 via email at [email protected]
