Charitable involvement is part of company culture
Fort Collins, CO, – Disadvantaged, abused and neglected children in Northern Colorado received nearly 400 donated bicycles in the 2008 holiday season through a program sponsored by Benjamin Franklin Plumbing. Bart Palmer, owner of the franchise business, says that doing good in the community contributes to a positive company culture that enhances the company's success.
Presented by Realities for Children, a charitable organization that Palmer sponsors throughout the year, the annual bicycle giveaway project works with bike shops to gather and refurbish bicycles donated by area residents. On Dec. 13, almost 400 children selected their bicycles.
"These children are in very difficult situations and a bicycle represents more than just an opportunity for physical activity," Palmer says. "A bike represents freedom. It gives the child a sense of independence – that he or she can go anyplace on his or her own power."
Palmer's company sponsored advertising for the bicycle giveaway and contributes monthly to operations at Realities for Children. Palmer has been in business since 1991 and converted to a Benjamin Franklin franchise in 2006. He has 12 employees and runs approximately 3,300 service calls annually.
"We have a social responsibility as a corporate neighbor in the community," Palmer says. "But beyond that, it feels good to make a positive difference. This sense of well‐being and contributing back to the community extends to our employees and our company's culture. In turn, we earn the respect of our community and potential customers. What you give to the world, you get back."
About Benjamin Franklin Plumbing
Benjamin Franklin Plumbing is one of the fastest growing plumbing franchises in the United States. Benjamin Franklin Plumbing ranked #140 on the 2009 Entrepreneur Franchise 500® list and #36 on the 2007 Franchise Times® "Fast 55" list. A customer's time is the No. 1 priority for Benjamin Franklin Plumbing. The franchise offers customers on‐time service, replacement and repairs done right the first time with courtesy, convenience, cleanliness, competence and character. The company is owned by Clockwork Home Services Inc. in Sarasota, Florida.
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