American Solutions for Business Creates American Stewardship Committee

Glenwood, Minnesota-based American Solutions for Business (ASB) has long been a supporter of worthy causes throughout its community and beyond. To coordinate it’s fund-raising, ASB has formed the American Stewardship Committee, comprised of up to 12 volunteers who organize and plan the various fund-raising events throughout the year. “For awhile, it seemed that the bulk of our efforts took place in December, a time when families are taxed to the maximum as far as time, money and stress,” said Faith Anderson, committee member. “So, we took a look at our areas of focus and decided to spread the fund-raising efforts throughout the year.”

For instance, in a November campaign called “Support the Troops”, the committee requested names of friends and relatives serving in the military overseas and set up a collection point in each department for gathering items that might not be accessible to servicemen and women overseas. When the collection was complete, ASB employees sent 10 boxes each weighing 25 lbs. to specific addresses overseas.

The most recent fund-raising effort took place in early December, and brought in more than $5,000 for Prevent Child Abuse Minnesota—an organization that has worked for the past 27 years to end child abuse and neglect in Minnesota. A silent auction featured donated items, including two authentic Minnesota Vikings Adrian Peterson jerseys, pieces of artwork and certificates for hotel stays. The company donated a day off with pay to the silent auction, raising more than $100 for the cause. Pot luck meals and bake sales also helped in the fund raising.

“Community Stewardship is one of our core values here at American,” said Amy Lamb, human resources team member. “We encourage participation and support in order to promote, develop and improve our communities. We’re following an excellent example provided by Larry Zavadil, (founder and president) who is always giving back to the community.” Many of the company’s 550 sales associates now contribute to the various fund-raising efforts as well.