11.07.2018
Vertical World Supports Treehouse with Holiday Donation Drive
Employees at Vertical World have supported Treehouse by hosting donation drives for the last few years. They collect funding for youth in foster care to participate in extracurricular activities, as well as toys and holiday gifts to stock our free store.
“Every time we host a drive, it’s memorable,” said Rich Johnston, founder of Vertical World, a rock climbing gym with locations in Seattle and Redmond. “We’re very happy to support an organization like Treehouse.”
Rich recently chatted with me about their continued support of youth in foster care.
Why do you support youth in foster care?
“There are few issues that are more important than kids having a secure, loving and stable environment in which to grow and learn. So many kids are at a disadvantage right out of the gate, and Treehouse’s mission goes to the heart of that issue.”
Why support them through donation drives?
“A donation drive is a direct relationship to people who care about this issue. Other ways of generating funds via grants is also good, but going directly to people who care is the best way.”
What is your favorite part about being a drive host?
“One of our favorite parts is being able to complete the circle between community and the organizations we believe in. By being involved with our community in this capacity, we’re also aligning with them toward a shared goal and perspective. We love being a part of a bigger picture in making a difference and knowing it may change lives.”
What are some materials you find particularly help from the donation drive kit?
“We believe one of the most important things that an organization can do when working with donors is to make the task of getting involved as easy and simple as possible. As a drive host, we have a lot on our plate to ensure that we make this successful for everyone involved. The materials and online setup were very user-friendly, and communication from Treehouse was fantastic!”
What advice would you like to share with new donation drive hosts?
“As a business, we owe it to our communities to reinvest into making it even better. A customer should feel like the businesses they support are involved in making a difference. Every year, we make donations to national and local organizations that protect our sport of climbing and the spaces we play in. By participating in Treehouse drives and with the generous support of our community, we believe our efforts go beyond who we are as climbers. We’re providing youth in foster care with opportunities and choices that they otherwise would never have.”
Make the holidays bright for youth in foster care. Sign up to host a holiday donation drive today at treehouseforkids.org/holiday.
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About the Author
Dana Petrarca, Treehouse’s Community Engagement Officer, works closely with community members to encourage and support engagement opportunities with Treehouse. She is passionate about building relationships, philanthropy and storytelling. Contact Dana at [email protected] if you are interested in hosting a donation drive or event to benefit Treehouse.