Charity Day: A Legacy of Employee Giving

Established in 1941 by C.P. McCormick, then President and Chairman of the Board, Charity Day was originally a day on which employees would work and donate their pay—matched dollar for dollar by the company—to local charities. Over the years, Charity Day has expanded beyond a one-day event, and now takes place over an extended period at McCormick locations in various regions of the world.

This year, employees can provide donations of either time or money to charities of their choosing, as well as those organizations included in our Flavor for Life campaign.  Flavor for Life supports organizations like the United Way of Central Maryland, the American Heart Association, the YMCA and Healthy Little Cooks. These programs aim to help children and their families make healthier eating and wellness choices every day.

In the United States, our 2018 Charity Day campaign officially began this week and will run through October. Just like the very first Charity Day 77 years ago, US employee contributions through this campaign will be matched by McCormick, doubling the impact on local communities and individuals. Events and activities take place around the world so that all employees can give back in ways that have the most impact within their region. Together, we can be a powerful force for change.

Charity Day, with the help of the United Way, is a vital element of our culture, providing employees with the opportunity to help fight the challenges we face at home and around the world. Our partnership with the United Way dates to the beginning of the organization as Willoughby McCormick, our company’s founder, was one of the original members. In 2017 alone, McCormick donated $1.8 million dollars through the United Way and other charities in the United States.

Stay tuned for more updates about this year’s Charity Day activities and milestones!