At Critical Research, one of our core values is “actions.” We believe words are only as true as the actions behind them. And this principle extends to how we approach our community involvement and support.
For that reason, we are proud to sponsor this year’s Annandale Village Extra Mile Walk/Run 5K. This year marks the 11th year of this fundraising event that brings together families, friends, businesses, schools and community organizations to celebrate individuals with developmental disability or acquired brain injuries living at Annandale Village.
As one of only three organizations in the entire United States offering a full continuum of service and care, Annandale Village has served adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities or acquired brain injuries for more than 50 years. It’s a unique place where the residents can reach their highest levels of independence.
“By sponsoring this event, we are helping raise awareness for the individuals Annandale serves and assisting in their continued specialized care. It’s a worthy cause that I’m delighted to get behind,” said Larry Carson, Founder and CEO of Critical Research.
Donations have a huge impact on Annandale Village’s life-changing programs. They help fund the following:
- Vocational training and transportation for residents who work and volunteer in the community.
- Behavioral and assessment support from a board-certified behavior analyst.
- Investing in employees to be a top employer.
- Covering continually rising operating costs.
- Programs enhancing the overall wellbeing of residents like art, music and recreation.
- Secure and maintain the 55-acre campus.
The annual 5K event is scheduled for Aug. 24, 2024, in Suwanee Town Center at 8 am, right in our own back yard.
Now is the time to give
Many organizations have faced – and continue to face – economic and labor challenges since the pandemic. And, unfortunately, Annandale is one of them. Since their operations are sustained by donations and support every year, and the cost of doing business continues to increase, there is no better time to be providing a much-needed donation.
Many companies wait until the holidays to be philanthropic. But we feel it’s important for it to be ingrained in our culture all year long. “Even as a small business, we can make a big difference,” said Carson.
We believe in the power of giving, for both the organizations we help and the benefits we experience as an organization. Here are just a few of them.
1. Boosts morale
It feels good to give. In fact, there are physical health benefits, like lower blood pressure, to being charitable. People who are generous also have higher satisfaction with life, believe life has more meaning, have stronger relationships and so much more.
2. Creates goodwill
When you support charitable activities in your community, people notice. Having your name associated with a cause or event builds name recognition. And people like to support and become loyal customers of businesses that help others.
3. Builds camaraderie
Writing a check to a non-profit is great, but volunteering can bring even more value for all involved. Company-sponsored volunteering benefits employees by improving leadership abilities, morale and fellowship.
4. Attracts and retains talent
The younger generations are known for being attracted to companies that are good corporate citizens. Your charitable efforts can make your company more appealing to potential employees and help them feel more satisfaction at work. Making charitable activities a part of your business says something about your organization.
5. Provides networking opportunities
Leaders in the community tend to be involved in charitable activities. By participating in these activities as well, you get the opportunity to interact with these community and business leaders. Otherwise, you may never cross paths.
Critical Research is honored to be associated with such a worthy charitable organization. Will you join us and contribute to their fundraising goal of $160,000? Donate to the 11th Annual Extra Mile 5K today and “go the extra mile” to help further Annandale’s mission – one step at a time!