As always, the last Solar Cares fundraiser of the year was dedicated to Adopt-A-Family, a program run by The Salvation Army. Solar sponsored six local families—two in Schuylkill County and four in Lebanon county—and also provided gifts and supplies for the entire family.
The four families in Lebanon County each had two children, while both families in Schuylkill County had three children. The Adopt-A-Family program benefits families that struggle financially and are unable to provide the Christmas celebration and gifts they would like to for their children. Families compile wishlists that include items the family needs and toys the children would like.
Office and shop team members at Solar were able to participate in Adopt-A-Family in a variety of ways. Like all other quarterly fundraisers, donations were collected at the start of the quarter. Those in the office who donated could wear jeans and/or sneakers, depending on the amount donated, for the remainder of the quarter.
For those who enjoyed a more hands-on donation experience, Solar allowed team members to shop for items from the families’ wishlists. The item, a short description, and the age range of the child (if applicable) were listed on tags, and team members could claim these tags if desired.
After all shopping was complete, our Events Committee compiled all the items and used the funds collected to purchase all other items on the wishlist. Some of these items, like bedding, furniture, gas cards, appliances, and winter outerwear were necessary for the families to live comfortably.
Solar team members really came together, raising a total of $3,880 in addition to the donated items. The company then matched $500, which brought the grand total to $4,380. With an astonishing 80 percent participation rate in the office, the team once again carried on the tradition of a successful Solar Cares Adopt-A-Family campaign.