Cleveland is a city known for its philanthropic spirit, understanding a thriving community includes organizations that prioritize giving back. At United Way, we see this commitment through the dedication and support of the workplace campaign. Not only do Cleveland corporations fundraise millions in support of United Way and the nonprofit sector, but they also engage staff in volunteerism.
Two of these companies are CSA Group and Greater Cleveland Partnership (GCP). Both have consistently lived their company values and engaged in initiatives to better the communities where they live and work. Through volunteer projects, ongoing fundraising efforts, and a deep sense of social responsibility, these companies are helping to build a brighter future.
CSA Group: Building Community,
One Project at a Time
Giving back is woven into the fabric of CSA Group’s corporate culture. Martine Scheuermann, Manager of Human Resources for the U.S. and Mexico, emphasizes that every employee event aims to “pay it forward.” From collecting canned goods for a student-run food pantry to gathering hats and gloves for those in need, CSA Group integrates philanthropy into their everyday work.
CSA Group has partnered with United Way for decades and their commitment remains strong. Their annual campaign features payroll deductions, making it easy for employees to contribute. Although payroll deductions and fundraising continued during COVID-19, the organization briefly paused volunteer efforts but quickly reignited them as soon as it was safe to do so. “There was an appetite to get active again,” Martine explains.
In addition to their most recent campaign, CSA Group hosted a memorable project that involved team building and volunteerism as employees built bicycles for children at the YWCA of Greater Cleveland, a United Way grantee partner. With the help of a local bike shop, CSA Group staff worked in teams to assemble five bikes. This hands-on initiative not only benefited local kids but also allowed colleagues to connect in new ways. “It was really effective,” says Martine. “The event brought together staff across departments and offices in support of United Way and the YWCA.”
Looking ahead, CSA Group remains committed to safety, sustainability, and community engagement. With their U.S. headquarters in Cleveland, they are eager to expand their volunteer footprint, and United Way is a priority partner for them across North America. Their matching gift program also amplifies employee contributions, reinforcing the company’s dedication to making a difference.
Greater Cleveland Partnership: Fostering a Culture of Giving
Greater Cleveland Partnership (GCP) has been a partner of United Way for as long as current staff can remember. Debbie Gutzky, Vice President of Human Resources, describes their approach to volunteerism as a natural extension of their work. “It’s not just about what we do every day; it’s about supporting the community,” she says. This belief drives GCP’s efforts to encourage community engagement.
GCP’s annual volunteer day is a cornerstone of this. In 2023, after a pandemic-related pause, the company brought back the tradition. Employees were divided into groups to support the Greater Cleveland Food Bank, Kids’ Book Bank, MedWish, and PCs for People. Many participants were so inspired by the experience that they returned on their own time. “The team connects in different ways when doing these activities,” says Anne Leiby, Director of Human Resources. “Seeing colleagues only in the office is one-dimensional. Offering staff the opportunity to get to know each other outside of the office builds positive relationships.”
In 2024, GCP built on this momentum by working with United Way to organize a large-scale project at Fairhill Partners that included landscaping, painting, and organizing supplies for seniors. GCP believes United Way has been a valuable partner for identifying meaningful ways to get involved. Their annual workplace campaign gives priority to engaging activities that appeal to everyone. From chili cook-offs to stress ball bowling, GCP finds creative ways to keep employees excited about giving back.
In 2024 alone, GCP’s team of 71 contributed 177.5 hours of service. Beyond hands-on volunteering, they organize collection drives during the holiday season that support the Greater Cleveland Food Bank, Winter Warmth Mission, Family Promise, The City Mission, and the Centers’ Adopt-A-Family program.
A Shared Vision for the Future
Both CSA Group and GCP share an optimistic vision for the future of Greater Cleveland. For Martine, the ability to extend CSA Group’s commitment to safety and sustainability beyond the workplace is exciting. As the company continues to grow, she sees new opportunities to engage employees and make a positive impact. Similarly, Debbie from GCP believes that Cleveland’s future depends on caring for its most vulnerable residents. “To be an appealing community, we need to take care of the people who need it,” she says.
The collaborative spirit between corporate partners and United Way plays a crucial role in fostering lasting change. As more organizations join forces to address community needs, the potential for impact only grows. With leaders like CSA Group and GCP paving the way, the future is bright for Cleveland and beyond.
Thank you to every company that has partnered with United Way on a volunteer project in the last year: AAA, Charter Steel, EY, People’s Bank, Rockwell Automation, Swagelok
