Charitable acts

PlaceMakers turns pink ahead of Blue September

Sadly, it’s likely that everyone reading this will know someone who has been affected by cancer. Supporting cancer-related charities is one way in which many of us try to make a positive difference. PlaceMakers is already a long-term sponsor of the Prostate Cancer Foundation’s annual Blue September appeal. This year, head office broadened its scope to help raise funds for the Breast Cancer Foundation’s Pink Ribbon initiative.

Martin Brannigan, Category Manager, organised PlaceMakers fundraiser – which totalled more than $1,700 – and plans to make it a regular event.

“We ran a range of activities, including raffles, mufti-days and bake sales. Everyone was really happy to get behind the cause and I hope to make it a yearly event,” says Martin.

While the inspiration for supporting the Breast Cancer Foundation was in part to balance out the company’s male-focused Blue September support, Martin acknowledges that cancer affects entire families, regardless of who is diagnosed, so support for either charity works both ways.

“Another important aspect for PlaceMakers is simply being a good corporate citizen. It’s something we take very seriously,” says Martin. “This year, we’ve also been involved with the charity Give a Kid a Blanket. As the name suggests, they’re all about ensuring children in need have access to warm bedding. We donated a number of sleeping bags to them.”

Charity begins at home

As part of its annual Blue September appeal, PlaceMakers offers free blood tests to its male staff at head office.

“Last year, we had around 40 people come in and get checked. The first year we only had about six people volunteer, until I spread the word that it was a simple blood test – another 20-odd signed up almost immediately!

“A lot of people still imagine a gloved hand when they think about getting checked for prostate cancer. I think it’s important to raise awareness about the role that early detection plays in successfully treating the disease and the fact that a blood test is all that is actually required.”

Clear your calendar!

Once again, PlaceMakers branches nationwide are gearing up to get behind Blue September with a range of awesome events, including the Bikers in Blue motorycycle rally, Whakatane’s annual charity golf tournament and word on the street is that PlaceMakers Dunedin crew is looking at entering a car rally! Stay tuned for more updates. To find out what’s happening near you, check in with your local account manager.