In 2003, Shearer’s Foods officially formalized taking care of its employees. It’s something that had been done on an informal basis in the past, but it was time to organize a committee to make sure all the needs of employees were being met.
Dubbed “The Sharing and Caring Committee,” the group was tasked with identifying fellow associates and people in the community with special needs and providing support, while getting all of Shearer’s associates involved in the fund-raising.
Funds are raised through carry-in luncheons, kangaroo court, Brewster Garage Sale Days, raffles, a company golf outing, basket raffles and Shearer’s cookbook sales. Funds are then distributed to needy individuals at Shearer’s and throughout the community. Shearer’s associates companywide are welcome to join the group, whose members include employees from all three shifts, management and manufacturing.
When an employee’s family was in desperate need, $800 was collected in one hour, and the company matched those funds. Whenever an associate has needed assistance, the company and its associates have been there to lend support, physically, emotionally and financially.
“I’ve never seen such a powerful and caring group of people,” says Bob Shearer, president of the company. “I’m very proud to be counted as a Shearer’s associate. It would be difficult not to be impressed with their dedication to their fellow associates and the community.”
By helping employees in need get back on their feet, the company and its associates are providing relief for their situations, and in turn, those employees who needed help are able to give back to the company by doing a better job. By participating in fund-raising efforts, employees companywide become involved through donations, serving on the committee, being more aware of people around them and becoming more compassionate.
With stronger associates, Shearer’s becomes a stronger company.
Other examples of the committee at work include:
* At Christmas in 2000, $3,565 was given out to associates in need, $500 went to the Massillon Domestic Violence Shelter, $600 to missionaries in South America and $100 to St. Teresa’s Giving Tree.
* Shearer’s named The Compassionate Friends Inc. as its charity of choice to receive proceeds from the annual Shearer’s golf outing in June. A check for $2,300 was presented to the organization. The Compassionate Friends is a national nonprofit, self-help support organization that offers friendship, understanding and hope to bereaved parents, grandparents and siblings following the loss of a child.
How to reach: Shearer’s Foods, www.shearers.com
