In 2019, CAA ICON began investing in an initiative built by employees, for employees: Together We Thrive. As the events of 2020 unfolded, we wanted our holiday giving program to reflect the values of  our employees, as well as the needs of the communities where we live and work. The campaign was centered around connection and gratitude and themed with our three Together We Thrive employee committees in mind:

• Livewell: promoting health and wellbeing
• Mosaic: focusing on inclusion and diversity
• Evergreen: encouraging sustainability

Prior to the holidays, an external electronic greeting was sent to a curated list of clients who were able to help direct funds to the beneficiaries of our charitable donation. Clients chose their favorite of eight organizations, which represented the values of our committees. CAA ICON employees also participated by choosing a beneficiary, with an optional company donation match of up to $100. The total amount donated was nearly $18,000.

Internally, we sent holiday gift kits to all employees centered around the same theme of connection, gratitude, and the principles of each committee. The gifts contained items representing the committees:

• A cutting board to promote cooking healthy meals at home  
•  Treats from a Charlotte, Black-owned business and a Colorado non-profit
• A company cookbook showcasing employee recipes and traditions
•  A planting kit with wildflower seedings

We also included items such as a custom puzzle and thank you cards for the employees to mail out, representing our commitment to connection and gratitude.