At Crane Group, corporate giving means much, much more contributing an occasional check during an organization’s fund drive. We believe the donation of time and energy is as important — maybe more so — than financial gifts. So we actively encourage our associates at all levels to play meaningful roles in groups we believe in.

A number of ongoing programs provide the time and direction necessary to make an impact. These activities are mutually beneficial — they allow us to bring fresh perspectives and ideas back into our own organizations.

Our programs include:

One way we accomplish our philanthropic goals is through our Crane on Board program. In place since 2005, it encourages our associates to fill active volunteer board positions with eligible non-profit organizations.

Currently, 60 Crane Group leaders serve on more than 100 non-profit boards. Their involvement will eventually be built into performance metrics and continues to carry forward our commitment of being good stewards to the community. Organizations that benefit from the Crane on Board program include:

One of our most recent philanthropic initiatives, Project Mentor, is a school-based mentoring collaboration between Big Brothers Big Sisters and Columbus Public Schools. As a program partner, our associates are given the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of central Ohio middle school students. They visit with eighth gradersfor one hour each week at five participating middle schools in the Columbus Public School District.

Currently, 70 Crane associates volunteer their time with the program. Our hope, initially, was to involve 60 people in honor of Crane Group’s 60th anniversary and our continued commitment to the community. We were pleased when our associates easily exceeded this goal.