November 15, 2024

Hi Marley Gives Back: Employees Volunteer at Local Nonprofits to Support Community

At Hi Marley, we believe in living our values. That’s why we recently hosted our first-ever “Give Back Day,” where employees came together to volunteer at organizations that are making a real difference in our communities. To select the volunteer sites, Hi Marley’s Volunteering Committee surveyed our employees to learn about causes close to their hearts, then chose three local organizations that Hi Marley employees are passionate about supporting.

Drumlin Farm Wildlife Sanctuary- Lincoln, MA

The first group of volunteers enjoyed perfect weather while getting their hands dirty at Drumlin Farm in Lincoln, MA.

Drumlin Farm, which uses sustainable farming practices, grows a variety of fruits and vegetables. In addition to donating produce to local food pantries, it also operates a sliding-scale CSA program, making fresh, locally grown produce accessible to the community, regardless of financial situation. Proceeds from sales at the CSA, farmers’ markets, and local restaurants support the sanctuary, including its nature-based programs for children and families.

The employees received an overview of Mass Audubon’s properties across the state and their efforts to preserve nature and wildlife in Massachusetts, then headed to the fields, working alongside other farmhands harvesting radishes for their various initiatives.

Cradles to Crayons Massachusetts- Newton, MA

Seventeen Hi Marley employees volunteered at Cradles to Crayons, the largest national nonprofit focused on ending children’s clothing insecurity. In Massachusetts, 1 in 3 children faces clothing insecurity. With no government programs dedicated to providing clothing and hygiene products for children, Cradles to Crayons fills this critical gap. Since 2002, the organization has distributed nearly 5.8 million packages of essentials, including clothing, shoes, coats, diapers, and school supplies.

This was Hi Marley’s second time volunteering onsite at the organization’s Giving Factory in Newton, MA. The team sorted clothing donations by size, including shirts, pants, shorts, dresses, and sweaters. By the end of their shift, they had sorted 79 bins of clothing, which will be used to create outfit packages for children across the state.

Animal Rescue League of Boston- Dedham, MA

The third group of Hi Marley employees volunteered at the Animal Rescue League (ARL) in Dedham, MA. ARL is dedicated to rescuing and supporting animals in need. The organization goes above and beyond to ensure animals stay safe and healthy in habitats and homes. In 2023 alone, ARL helped 23,000 animals, finding new homes for over 2,000 cats, 700 dogs, six livestock animals, and various rodents and other pets.

The Hi Marley team helped clean kennels and socialize the animals, including a ferret, cats, puppies, and pigs.

Our first Give Back Day gave us the opportunity to contribute to our community while connecting with coworkers in a meaningful way,” said Stefanie Bishop, Chief People Officer at Hi Marley. “What we accomplished together for these organizations filled all of our hearts and exemplified what Hi Marley is about.”

This day was more than just a volunteer opportunity—it reflected our values, and we’re excited to continue this new, yearly tradition.

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