For six years in a row, KBS staff have participated in a creative way to liven up generous holiday spirits. Named “12 Cans of Christmas,” this company program rewards employees’ foodbank contributions with additional vacation time during the holidays. This year, the program generated $4,500 and two large boxes of food for the Central Virginia Food Bank.
During the first two weeks of December, KBS staff have been bringing non-perishable food items to the office to be donated to the Central Virginia Food Bank. Others have chosen to skip the grocery stores and open their wallets with a cash donation to the food bank.
A donation of 12 cans or $10 qualifies employees for an extra hour of vacation time during the holiday season. A donation of 24 cans or $20 earns an extra two hours.
“The program began as a fun way to bring the giving spirit of the season into our typical holiday activities,” said John Gillenwater, vice president of business development. “Now, it’s something that our staff looks forward to year after year. It not only helps people in need, but also fosters a friendly corporate culture allowing employees extra time to do holiday shopping or simply spend time with family.”
This year, KBS employees filled two donations boxes with food items and $2,250 for the Central Virginia Food Bank. KBS matched employee donations bringing the cash total to $4,500. Since 2013, the program has generated more than 2,200 pounds of food and $11,500 for the Central Virginia Food Bank.
