Heineken USA’s Heineken with a Heart initiative has succeeded in raising more than $520,000 in donations for more than 50 local charities and non-profit organizations since its inception in 2007. The milestone was reached in the last two months as the company hosted Heineken with a Heart events in New York, Tampa, Atlanta, Chicago and Minneapolis.
Further extending its philanthropic reach, Heineken with a Heart is set to host an event to sponsor the Tribeca Film Festival (TFI). TFI draws on the power of film to promote understanding, tolerance and global awareness, and supports the cultural and economic revitalization of New York City and Lower Manhattan through arts-based initiatives.
“Being an active and responsible member of the communities where our employees live and work and where our products are enjoyed is one of the foundational values of our organization,” said Don Blaustein, president and chief executive officer, Heineken USA. “I am really proud of this grassroots movement. Not only does it allow us to channel our passions into a worthy cause, it demonstrates the value we place on our people and partners, as well as the causes they care about. Words cannot describe how proud and excited I am to celebrate our team’s success this evening with friends, key customers and partners.”
The Heineken with a Heart program is a collective effort of Heineken USA, distributors and retailers. Local residents 21 years-of-age and older are invited to the events, where business leaders, local personalities and neighbors socialize and support a local cause. In exchange for a modest donation to the charity, attendees enjoy appetizers and ice cold Heineken and Heineken Premium Light.
Heineken with a Heart is part of HUSA Cares, a larger Heineken USA initiative that gives back to communities through volunteering and donations to non-profits. In addition to Heineken with a Heart, the company also organizes days of giving throughout the year, which range from volunteering at an HIV/AIDS service center or food pantry to revitalizing nursing homes and local parks.
“I think all of us who have had the privilege to participate in one of these activities recognizes that these days are not just about coming together for a good cause but are also really rewarding ways to build camaraderie with one another and pride in the organization that we are a part of,” said Blaustein.
Past events have raised significant funds for a number of local organizations, including but not limited to the American Diabetes Association, American Red Cross, The Food Bank of Westchester and the Make A Wish Foundation.