Spotlight: American Cancer Society Partnership

The week of the Renewal by Andersen annual Retailer Summit, held virtually this year, got off to a heartwarming start as RbA volunteers from all across the North America network banded together for a virtual event to assemble and send off 1,200-plus care packages for American Cancer Society (ACS) Hope Lodge patients on January 31.

This was the fifth annual Renewal Cares charity event held in conjunction with the annual company-wide conference, and 200+ individuals spent the afternoon assembling the tote bags, which were filled with items designed to bring a bit of sunshine, joy, and comfort to adults staying at Hope Lodge facilities while they are receiving cancer treatments. “The American Cancer Society takes pride in helping cancer patients cope with their diagnosis and access the care they need. These care packages are the perfect way to brighten a patient’s day while he/she is undergoing cancer treatment,” says Keely Couillard, Director Corporate Relations American Cancer Society.

The gift tote included a journal, a warm pair of socks, a thick, plush blanket, and other personal care items. William Ethier, senior director for the Boston AstraZeneca Hope Lodge, says, “[Receiving a care package like this] means a lot to the [patients here]. They don’t know how long they’re going to have to stay. They’re fighting for their life and so just having that extra little security is going to be a big benefit.”

It also marked another successful event in the partnership between Renewal by Andersen and the ACS. During the packaging event, which was open to both conference participants AND their families (thanks to this year’s virtual format), CEO Gary Reedy had a special message for RbA, congratulating teammates for donating more than $1 Million dollars since 2018 stating, "I am so grateful for everyone at the Andersen Corporation and Renewal by Andersen for your tremendous support of the American Cancer Society... You've made a real difference."

Being able to make a difference resonated with Renewal team members. Being able to do so with their families in a group activity made the moment even more special. “I was blessed to be able to do this at home this year and to have my kids participate in stuffing the bags. They had a blast making the thank you cards!” says Sven Johnson (RbA Portland, ME).

For David Meade (General Manager RbA WY/MT/rapid City), being able to give back had a personal connection and special resonance: “As a two-time cancer survivor, I was very excited to do this. [Gestures like this] really remind you how loved and supported you are.” (Watch more of David’s story here and learn more about the ACS/Renewal by Andersen partnership here.)

“Being a presence in the communities in which our employees work and live is one of the cornerstones of Renewal’s values. Individually, our locations all across the country are committed to giving back, so to be able to all come together here, work as a team, and bring some smiles to the patients and their families at the Cancer Center…we are so proud and pleased,” says Paul Delahunt, then President of Renewal by Andersen. Delahunt has participated in the annual Renewal Cares Summit Event every year. Although he officially retired from RbA this February, he remains on the board of the Minnesota Chapter of CEOs Against Cancer.