Founded in Cleveland in 1911, Thompson Hine is deeply rooted in the fabric of the local community. It considers itself to have grown alongside other legacy organizations like United Way of Greater Cleveland.
On their website, Thompson Hine states that they measure their success by a high number of ongoing client relationships, as well as their history of community involvement with a broad range of organizations. In truth, their commitment extends far beyond a statement on a webpage.
Thom Butchko, Partner and Chair of Thompson Hine’s United Way Campaign, explains, “Philanthropy and giving back are ingrained in the culture of the firm. That spirit transcends all our locations, but in our Cleveland office specifically, we have longstanding ties with organizations like United Way, Legal Aid Society of Cleveland, and the Greater Cleveland Food Bank. There’s a common expectation that everyone contributes to the community.”
Today, Thompson Hine is a national firm with offices in nine cities though it remains a staple in the city of Cleveland. Founded here in 1911, the firm is deeply rooted in the fabric of the local community. It considers itself to have grown alongside other legacy organizations like United Way of Greater Cleveland. As such, the firm is committed to hosting their annual United Way workplace campaign.
“Our staff participates in several campaigns throughout the year,” says Chris Sponseller, Senior Managing Associate and member of United Way’s Emerging Leaders Cabinet. “However, United Way’s is definitely our largest of the year. We have a week of events and activities. People know it’s coming, it’s on the calendar, and they look forward to it – it’s a time when we all donate our time and money to the cause.”
Conni Cunin, Senior Operations Manager and manager of Thompson Hine’s workplace campaign, agrees that the flexibility offered by the campaign is part of what makes it successful. “Our campaign committee is cognizant of the fact people earn different incomes and their ability to give can vary. We want everyone to have the opportunity to participate, so we offer opportunities to help set up activities or provide in-kind support. We also aim to plan a variety of activities with different price points.”
Thom, Chris, and Conni all agree that in addition to the flexibility offered by the United Way campaign, the variety of creative events also contributes to success. Ranging from football squares and chili cook-offs to dress-down days and raffles, there is something for everyone.
A favorite activity amongst the group is the silent auction. Employees are encouraged to donate items and contributions have included everything from rounds of golf, cooking lessons with the partners, and curated barbecue lunches to hand-drawn one-of-kind sticky note artwork. Says Chris, “A lot of people donate fun and funny items to the silent auction. Looking through the items is a great way to learn a bit more about your colleagues and their hobbies. And, if you win the bid for an experiential package, like a cooking class or lunch, then you get to know them on a more personal level. It facilitates connection.”
For years, Thompson Hine has proven that a campaign fueled by connection and fun brings results. The firm has raised nearly $1 million in support of United Way since 2019.
When asked why Thompson Hine has remained dedicated to supporting United Way, Conni offers, “Each year, we hear stories of impact from United Way. It’s joyful to learn about the people who benefit from these programs and to know your contribution, no matter the size, can make a difference. It’s also a reminder of what’s important – the people of our community who you see every day and doing your part so they have food, shelter, and the medical attention they need.”
“It’s joyful to learn about the people who benefit from these programs and to know your contribution, no matter the size, can make a difference. It’s also a reminder of what’s important – the people of our community who you see every day and doing your part so they have food, shelter, and the medical attention they need.”
Adds Thom, “There have been some exciting changes at United Way in recent years. It’s brave for a longstanding organization to change course from how things have been done. Not only are there new 211 programs that offer a one-stop-shop for various points of need, but there are now the established pillars to distribute more targeted funding and address systemic issues.”
Though United Way is an organization that understands the need in our community and can effectively direct funding, the three agree that it is important for everyone to engage on a broader level. In Cleveland, there is a particular feeling of connection between self and the community. Giving back is about taking pride in your home. Thom, Chris and Conni share the belief that if someone is in a position of stability or success, there is an obligation to give back through donation, volunteerism or both.
To those looking to make philanthropy a priority within their company, they suggest securing leadership’s buy-in and treating it as a priority. Says Chris, “Hold each other accountable. If there is a board meeting or campaign activity on the calendar, respect it. Treat it as non-negotiable. And remember that philanthropy is a shared goal; plan ahead, know it’s coming, make it active, and keep it fun.”
