IGS to Launch Employee-vested Philanthropic Initiative
Dublin, OH, September 3, 2015 – IGS Impact, a newly created-platform for community investment within the company, was officially launched with a kick-off event and an employee volunteer fair on Thursday, September 3.
In a socially responsible business move, IGS has identified community investment as a corporate priority. With the goal of 10,000 volunteer hours and 100% employee participation by 2018, IGS Impact is seeking to increase the company’s philanthropic footprint through the empowerment of its passionate employees. Additionally, the company has pledged to make significant financial contributions to non-partners over the next three years through Impact’s IGS Foundation.
Jen Bowden, Director of Community Investment, was hired to spearhead the initiative; leveraging her extensive experience in corporate and community relations, which she gained while with the Columbus Blue Jackets and Mid-Ohio Foodbank.
Scott White, president and CEO of IGS said, “IGS Impact is an extension of our culture. We believe in making a difference and making an impact in everything we do as a business. And now we can make an impact in the community by being strategic and thoughtful.”
By further investing in and connecting with the community, IGS also invests more in its greatest asset—its employees—with the hope that they will feel more appreciated and fulfilled. White understands that a happier workplace carries over to the customer, who ultimately will have a better experience with IGS.
IGS Impact’s mission is to create positive change through philanthropy, volunteerism, and partnerships in the areas of: energy sustainability, social enterprise and entrepreneurship, and causes that matter to IGS employees.
Through Volunteerism, employees can give their time and share their talents to build stronger communities and connect with causes that matter to them. Employees will receive an annual bank of Volunteer Time Off (VTO) hours that can be used toward volunteer opportunities of their choice. This is in addition to company and department-sponsored volunteer opportunities throughout the year that do not count against the VTO bank, as well as a company-wide day of service in the spring of 2016.
The IGS Foundation aims to create a positive, transformational impact on the world by partnering with those companies in the areas of focus mentioned above and investing IGS’ resources with greater purpose.
Lastly, by means of the Community Giving program, employees will be financially assisted in their own contributions to causes they care about personally. Through Matching Gifts and Dollars for Doers, employees are able to give their money and time, and IGS will match a certain percentage annually for each type of contribution. Impact also exists to support those employees who might be experiencing times of unforeseen financial hardship via its Employee Hardship Fund.
IGS Impact will generate a greater sense of interconnectedness: between IGS and the community; between the customer and IGS; and most importantly, among the IGS employees. Scott White concluded, “Through Impact, we will be able to engage our employees in a more purpose-driven life.”
About IGS
Founded in 1989, IGS has been a leading advocate for change in the energy industry with the goal of offering innovative energy choices to commercial, industrial, and residential customers. Through our dedicated companies, we expertly advise and help consumers make smart energy decisions that fit their individualized needs as they play a vital role in creating a sustainable energy future. Recently, the company was recognized by J.D. Power for ranking “Highest in Residential Customer Satisfaction with Retail Electric Service in Ohio”. For more information, visit us online at IGSenergy.com.