Throughout the month of May, The Container Store and our employees around the country paid tribute to the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation. Spearheaded by our Military, Veterans and Patriots (MVP) Employee Resource Group, we organized and participated in a series of events that culminated with national participation in the Memorial May Campaign sponsored by Carry The Load.
Our participation in the Memorial May Campaign helps Carry The Load provide active ways to honor and remember our nation's heroes, raise funds for their families, and educate future generations on the sacrifices made to protect our freedom. "This was my first experience participating in the Memorial May Campaign and I was in awe of the event," said Christy Parra, our VP of Supply Chain and Executive Sponsor of the MVP Employee Resource Group. "I learned so much and gained incredible perspective around what Memorial Day is really about. The event was an amazing show of support, camaraderie, and remembrance. I am grateful to our service men and women, as well as our first responders and their families. I may not know them all, but I thank them all and will always remember."
For Kevin Bahret, Chair of our MVP Employee Resource Group, the experience was just as powerful. "As a veteran myself, I've always had a special place in my heart for those who made the ultimate sacrifice, but my thoughts and approach to Memorial Day this year changed somewhat due to our partnership with Carry the Load," he said. "It became more personal. I felt more connected to the vast community of people celebrating our nation's greatest heroes. Being involved with Carry The Load gives you a glimpse into the lives of those they've left behind and the impact they had and continue to have on our community and country."
Employees and their families from our stores and distribution centers around the country participated in relays and rallies in their local communities while fundraising to support the cause. "We had the opportunity to meet many others who care about the true meaning of Memorial Day and honoring those who lost their lives for the sake of our freedoms," said Charlie Feeny, General Manager of our Columbus, OH store. Charlie served in the U.S. Army Reserve during Desert Storm.
Accompanying Charlie to Columbus relay was Visual Sales Manager Dan Grego, who served in the Army in Afghanistan before joining The Container Store. "Everyone was excited to hear The Container Store cares for our military communities and what we are doing to build lasting relationships!" he said.
"Freedom is earned," Kevin added. "A handful of heroes gave everything so that most people won't have to. I continue to be awed by these heroes and thankful for organizations like Carry The Load who keep their memory alive and give support to their families."
To join our ongoing efforts of honoring our nation's heroes and supporting Carry The Load, click here.
