As MeadWestvaco was building its new headquarters in downtown Richmond, it also was building a fund for local organizations focused on education, diversity, youth and safe environments.
In a novel fundraising arrangement, the 25 contractors and subcontractors that worked on the building's interior contributed 2 percent of their construction cost to the MWV Community Fund, created by MWV and general contractor Whiting-Turner.
The fund grew to $350,000, which went to seven recipients at a luncheon last week in the headquarters building.
The largest contributions went to groups with the widest community impact: Communities in Schools, Violence Free Zone and Challenge Discovery's Say It with Heart anti-bullying initiative. Other recipients were Boaz & Ruth, FIRST Contractors, J. Sargeant Reynolds, Partnership for the Future and St. Catherine/St. Christopher Saturday Academy.
"As far as we're aware, this is the first fundraising effort of its kind," said Linda Schreiner, senior vice president, MWV. "We are proud to have originated the concept, but this couldn't have been accomplished without the commitment of our suppliers, which include local minorityand women-owned businesses that are the foundation of the Richmond business community. These grants will help promote education and life skills, and reduce crime and violence in our area."
"The idea emerged during conversations during the building planning process, when we were brainstorming ways the building might benefit the community," said Kathryn Strawn, vice president and executive director of the MeadWestvaco Foundation. "Hopefully, it will provide an example for others in the future."
. . .
The YMCA of Greater Richmond received $10,000 from the Staples Foundation for Learning for its Youth Development Program, which includes two academic enrichment activities for disadvantaged young people.
The Black Achievers program pairs minority teenagers with role models who offer advice and support on the best path to take after graduating from high school, enabling the teens to explore higher education and career opportunities.
The Tutoring Club provides students with individualized tutoring to improve their academic performance and test scores, helping them become more confident.
"With support from Staples Foundation for Learning, we will continue to grow our programs, giving students a safe after-school environment where they can excel," said YMCA of Greater Richmond President and CEO Barry Taylor.
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