Jun. 20, 2018 | This past spring, Choate Construction held its 9th annual Cars & 'Q for the Cause, attracting over 1,300 participants in Atlanta for its annual car show and barbecue. The company helped raise over $435,400 for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.
Choate Construction is an example of what corporations can accomplish together when they decide to make an impact and champion a cause. Choate has been involved with the Foundation since the construction company was founded in 1989.
“My father, Millard Choate, was beginning his construction company when he learned that my closest friend, Leann, was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis,” said Emily Bridges, marketing director of the company. “After gaining a better understanding about CF, he decided to bring fundraising to his business by participating in various local events. The results have been phenomenal.”
What began as a gathering of employees interested in cars, barbecue, and music turned into a hugely successful annual Passion Fundraiser -- raising enormous funds for the Foundation each year.
“In the beginning, it wasn't intended to be a huge fundraiser; it started out as a supplement to the Great Strides walk that we participated in as a company,” recalled Bridges. “A group of us here really like cars, and one year, we thought about having a few people over to celebrate in our parking lot. Little did we know what this moment would turn into overtime.”
Today, Emily and Leann are still best friends and Choate Construction remains dedicated as ever to finding a cure for cystic fibrosis. The company's commitment to philanthropy serves as a role model for many businesses unsure of how to integrate giving back with their business goals.
“Cars & 'Q plays a huge part of our culture at Choate. Stewardship is one of our core values, so having the ability to go beyond the day-to-day business cycle, especially for our younger employees here, is really important,” said Emily. “Together, I know we have made a difference for Leann and other people living with CF -- and that's an amazing feeling.”