‘Tis the season for charitable giving, supporting Toys for Tots and much more. Goldstein, Buckley, Cechman, Rice & Purtz‘s collection of toys for the U.S. Marine Corps Toys for Tots Foundation wrapped up this month. The drive, supporting Toys for Tots and much more, yielded more than 150 toys collected to be distributed to approved local, social welfare agencies, church groups and other organizations for the holidays.
It’s the 13th year the firm has been an official public collection point, but supporting Toys for Tots and much more has been happening at the firm for more than 35 years.
“I’ve been at the firm since 1984, and I do not remember a time we weren’t supporting Toys for Tots,” said Carleen Menist, a legal assistant for partner attorney Richard Purtz. “I was always involved getting folks what they needed. People would bring me items, and I would find a home. We’ve always been involved. There is always a need. Always.”
Janeé Broadway, marketing and events coordinator for the firm, said many of the toys donated this year came from members of the firm. “Our staff is incredibly generous,” she said. “The Toys for Tots boxes were overflowing before we announced the collection to the public!”
Supporting Toys for Tots and Much More
In addition to Toys for Tots, Menist says the firm has supported local sports teams with their fundraisers, the Community Cooperative Soup Kitchen, area schools with school supplies, area churches, the Shelter for Abused women, area Veterans and many more. “I don’t remember a time we weren’t giving,” she said.
Giving extends to supporting employees. Menist said she started at the firm as a temporary secretary, and the firm helped her to advance in her career, paying for her education along the way. “They are very giving,” she said. “Books and all! No doubt, giving is the best feeling in the world.”