Pilot Flying J among top five fundraisers for ‘Life is Why we Give’ campaign.
Pilot Flying J has raised $981,000 in support of the American Heart Association’s (AHA) “Life Is Why We Give” campaign.
The chain revealed the amount of the donation on March 14 at a celebration at the company’s headquarters in Knoxville, Tenn.
In honor of American Heart Month, Pilot Flying J and its network of travel centers and convenience stores partnered with guests across the country to support the AHA’s mission to build healthier lives free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke. Through these initiatives, as well as Pilot Flying J gifts and sponsorships, the company raised $981,000.
With this amount, Pilot Flying J is among the top five national fundraisers for the AHA’s “Life Is Why We Give” campaign.
“Presenting this donation to the American Heart Association on behalf of Pilot Flying J team members and guests is a proud moment for our company,” said Ken Parent, president of Pilot Flying J and AHA board member. “It’s our hope that our campaign raised awareness among our team members and guests, inspiring them to put heart health first for themselves and their loved ones. Thank you to everyone for their outstanding support and generosity, contributing to a healthier tomorrow for all those impacted by heart disease and stroke.”
During the month of February, Pilot Flying J’s fundraising initiatives included the sale of special AHA red 16-ounce hot beverage cups with 10 cents going to AHA and the company matching each 10-cent donation; the sale of paper heart icons as well as online donations through the Pilot Flying J website; the ability for guests to round-up their purchases to the nearest whole dollar to donate the difference; and a partnership with Nestlé Waters for a Feb. 14, two for $2 Nestlé Pure Life water promotion, contributing $1 from each purchase for a $10,000 donation.
“Pilot Flying J’s passion in supporting our mission was apparent throughout the campaign planning and execution,” said Aaron Bishop, senior vice president of development for the American Heart Association’s Greater Southeast Affiliate. “Our work would not be possible without the generous support of committed companies like these who provide donation opportunities to their guests and teams, and Pilot Flying J brought enthusiasm, creativity and hard work to bear to be one of the most successful campaigns we’ve had.”
Diet and exercise are important factors in preventing heart disease. In addition to supporting the AHA, Pilot Flying J promotes a simple “Eat, Stretch, Move” approach to staying healthy while busy, whether on the road or elsewhere. The company’s website provides a Driver’s Move Guide with suggested exercises that can be done without a gym or equipment. At travel centers, guests can select healthy, high-quality PJ Fresh meals and grab-and-go food options made with fresh ingredients.
