Cherry Bekaert (the Firm) announced today the launch of the Cherry Bekaert Foundation (the Foundation), a 501(c)(3) volunteer-based, employee-led philanthropic organization. The Foundation was created last December with the mission of supporting and collaborating with organizations that align with the Firm’s shared values, contributing impactful resources, and inspiring Firm professionals to engage in their communities.
“Cherry Bekaert has many professionals that volunteer and contribute to philanthropic work throughout the year. The Cherry Bekaert Foundation is an extension of that work, where we can collectively contribute to making a difference as well as educating, empowering and inspiring,” says Susan Moser, Cherry Bekaert Partner and Foundation President.
With the initial announcement of the Foundation, the Firm’s partners pledged over $1M to stand up the Foundation and support charitable causes and the advancement of the organization. The Foundation will kick off its launch alongside the Firm’s annual Volunteer Week, July 17 through 21, with opportunities to give back to communities both in person and virtually, in addition to making charitable contributions. There will be additional opportunities for learning more about philanthropic engagement as well as expanding volunteerism throughout the year.
Based upon feedback from partners and employees across the Firm, the Foundation chose to primarily focus on supporting basic needs (food, clothing and shelter), community resources (through assistance to children and families), and education (including early childhood, access and financial literacy). The Foundation will support both local and national organizations that align with these focus areas, but also empower employees to volunteer for causes and with organizations meaningful to them.
“We are thrilled to launch the Cherry Bekaert Foundation, a testament to our unwavering commitment to creating positive change within our communities.” says Michelle Thompson, Chief Executive Officer, Cherry Bekaert Advisory LLC. “Both the work our Foundation Board has put into setting up the organization and the collaborative effort from our people to advance our mission demonstrate our dedication. I am passionate about addressing these fundamental needs head-on, and by partnering with both local and national organizations, we will build for a better tomorrow.”
Along with the Foundation, Cherry Bekaert has been making strides to contribute to the future of where professionals live and work. Earlier this year, the Firm joined Accounting+, a coalition committed to advancing diversity, equity and inclusion for future generations in the profession. As the Firm continues to grow, the people of Cherry Bekaert and the Firm’s Foundation are actively participating in and promoting positive change for a better tomorrow.
Read more on the Cherry Bekaert Foundation here.
