sign in sign up
<<
Home , Port Crescent State Park, Sensory tourism

MICHIGAN GIVING STORIES OF INDUSTRY GENEROSITY

PURE AWARD WINNER Social Impact Inspiration From Michigan’s Tourism Leaders

Michigan Cares for Tourism’s 2020 Volunteer Events CONTENTS

WELCOME 2

PURE AWARD WINNER | 3 PURE AWARD WINNER 3

GIVING STORIES 4-14

GREATER LANSING AND VISITORS BUREAU 4

BLACK STAR FARMS 5

BLISSFEST MUSIC FESTIVAL 6-7

CIRCLE MICHIGAN 8 GIVING STORIES | 4-14

DETROIT METRO CONVENTION AND VISITOR’S BUREAU 9

DOUBLETREE BY HILTON, PORT HURON 10-11

FLINT AND GENESSEE CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU 12-13

PICTURED ROCKS BOAT CRUISE 14

THE MITTEN BREWING COMPANY 15

PHILANTHROPIC FEATURES | 16-19 PHILANTHROPIC ARTICLE FEATURES 16-19

CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY EMPLOYS MANY MODELS TO 16-17 STRATEGICALLY ALIGN BUSINESS AND PHILANTHROPY

CONFERENCE VOLUNTEERING: AN EMERGING TREND 18-19

MICHIGAN CARES FOR TOURISM 2019 REVIEW 20-21

MICHIGAN CARES FOR TOURISM LEELANAU IMPACT REPORT 22-23

MC4T 2019 REVIEW | 20-21 REFERENCES, BOARD, AND DONORS/MEMBERS 24-25 ISSUE 02

2020 PURE AWARD WINNER

We are excited to announce Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy (GTRLC) as the winner of the 2020 Pure Award. The Pure Award was designed to recognize Michigan Tourism entities that have pioneered the incorporation of innovative and exemplary best practices in natural, cultural, and/or heritage stewardship into their daily operations. Resources are defined broadly to include historic, architectural, recreational, agricultural, and natural assets, and might relate to buildings, grounds, practices, processes, programs, and more.

For nearly 30 years, Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy has worked tirelessly “to protect northern Michigan’s significant natural, scenic, and farm lands – and advance stewardship – now and for future generations.” To date, GTRLC has protected nearly 44,000 acres of land and more than 140 acres of shoreline along rivers, lakes, and streams.

The nonprofit’s conservation efforts focus on balancing the growth of the region by permanently protecting all that makes it special: fresh, clean water, 2 WELCOME TO working farms, lush forests, coastal dunes, trails for hiking and biking, scenic 3 MICHIGAN GIVING vistas, and wildlife habitat and corridors. Congratulations to Grand Traverse Regional Land Conservancy on receiving this well-deserved recognition and paving the way for Michigan Tourism Michigan tourism organizations about inspire us to do more; we hope role giving is playing in conventions entities with their exemplary best practices in natural resource stewardship. continue to make a social impact they do for you too. and how industry volunteerism beyond the scope of their day to day differs from personal volunteerism. Thank you to this year’s Pure Award Committee for their work in business. They use their time, talent, This year, thanks to the tourism administering this award: Maia Turek (DNR/MC4T), John Allan (UofM), and resources to solve community industry’s continued generosity, Finally, check out how you can be Patty Janes (GVSU/MC4T), Bonnie Fink (MEDC & Tourism), issues and contribute to the well-being Michigan Cares for Tourism involved with MC4T this year as we Jessica Loding (Schupan Recycling/MC4T), Betty Workman ( of Michigan residents and visitors, (MC4T) did more than ever. A prepare to go to ‘’ for Trailer Park and Sales), and Olivia Rau (MC4T/GVSU). while building stronger organizations. summary of our 2019 accomplishments our multi-day event! is highlighted, with more than 500 We hope this publication is a way to industry volunteers investing over Many thanks to the authors, editors, PAST WINNERS share the many ways Michigan’s $150,000 in labor and supplies costs and photographers who contributed tourism industry gives back. This to revitalize several historic, cultural, to this year’s publication including: edition of Michigan Giving shares and natural attractions in Michi- Olivia Rau, Ami VanAntwerp, • 2019 – The Detroit Jazz Festival stories of ten organizations making a gan. MC4T’s lifetime volunteer and Victoria Stubbs, Patty Janes, • 2018 – Michigan Cares for Tourism difference. We begin with the 2020 cost saving totals are also included! Rosemary McCollom, Megan • 2017 – Headlands International Dark Sky Park Pure Award winner and move on to Thank you for continuing to invest Hartmus, Mary Minogue, Caitlyn • 2016 – Grand Haven Salmon Festival review a variety of tourism in Michigan’s tourism industry...our Witkamp, Claire Zuwala, Megan organizations ranging from privately people, our planet, our purpose. Heynen, Alyssa Bouwkamp, owned , festivals, lodging Aubrey Sochacki, Amanda properties, and convention and Together we will always do more. Witsaman. visitor bureaus. The stories we learn Also featured are two articles on the FEBRUARY 2020 ISSUE 02

GIVING STORY GREATER LANSING CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU By Aubrey Sochacki

Lansing is often known for being the has a CVB staff member that works capital of Michigan, the home of the directly with it, in order to best serve Spartans, and a growing community. the community. The city strives to be supportive of all members of the community, Another part of this initiative is GIVING STORY including local businesses and those Lansing’s annual event, “Be a Tourist who call the city home. in Your Own Town.” This event started 25 years ago and has created BLACK STAR FARMS The Greater Lansing Convention and a way for community members to By Alyssa Bouwkamp Visitors Bureau (CVB) encourages interact with over 100 attractions. each of their staff members to serve This event “opens” the community “We’ve built our business on what They give back by treating their around the site where they will be on local boards and committees. each year and encourages Lansing the earth has given us,” shines as a guests the same as their employees working. Black Star Farms kindly Through this encouragement, they citizens and others to visit the area 4 common concept throughout the with “love and respect.” Campbell offered to host MC4T’s kick-off 5 have made it possible for CVB and support the state’s capital. Black Star Farms business. Located went on to talk about the beginning discussions and shared their members to work with these boards in Suttons Bay, Michigan, Black Star of the hospitality business and how organization’s sustainability efforts and committees to organize local Lansing is not just the home of Farms caters to not only many guests the industry has grown over the with the group. They also served as events. One of the events that many Michigan’s government; it is also with wine and cheese tastings, years. Black Star Farms’ goal is to set an for a selection of the staff members help with is planting home to an inclusive community. high-end stays, scenic vineyards, the standard of businesses like them. volunteers and offered wine tasting flowers on the capital lawn each year. farmland, hiking trails, and wedding And their dedication to their staff and tours around the property. As This event brings the community venues, but they also make a point has paid off for them. Campbell a nonprofit which supports giving together and helps promote Lansing to give back to their community. recognized that with a “tight talent back to the industry, supporting as a tourist destination. From their treatment of the soil in market you have to have the right other hospitality businesses is right the vineyards, to the energy use on culture to maintain staff with the up Black Star Farms’ alley—they One of the major initiatives that the the property, to leaving guests fully family culture.” As every good cultivate their culture carefully to be Greater Lansing CVB is working on satisfied, Black Star Farms strives to hospitality manager knows, if the leaders throughout the industry. is promoting attractions with sensory be leaders in the industry. employees understand the business, activities for individuals with they will be the best advertisement disabilities. At these sensoryw Sustainability is not just a common and representation of the brand. KEY INFORMATION attractions, the CVB provides each practice with Black Star Farms, but volunteer with training to help them a way of life. The community in Last year, Michigan Cares for • Black Star Farms leads the provide better services for individuals Suttons Bay has been embraced with Tourism went up north to the hospitality and tourism industry with disabilities. Each attraction support from the local business. Leelanau and Grand in sustainability practices. Sherri Campbell, the manager and Traverse Lighthouse to assist in • Their wholistic practices daughter of the founders of Black repairs to the destination. As a range from energy use and soil Star Farms stated they “lead with nonprofit that values its volunteers, management, to high quality caring and compassion with a [business] they kick off the event with customer service. culture of a family and a team.” welcoming them to the community

FEBRUARY 2020 ISSUE 02

7

GIVING STORY BLISSFEST MUSIC FESTIVAL By Rosemary McCollom

Blissfest Music Festival initially When asked about Blissfest and volunteers that assist in organizing her in the eyes more than a handful of take part in collecting the cans that the festival takes place on developed from a small arts club its commitment to its community, and facilitating these local events. times. This individual initially wanted consumed during the festival weekend, throughout the year, adding in called the Spectrum Center, which sustainability, giving, and what the nothing to do with us while we were taking them to be recycled and then camping music, educational cultural was located above the Grain Train future has in store for the festival A unique way Blissfest assists the there, just sitting in the corner. Then the funds going towards their group. workshops, and related events that in Petoskey, MI. The club was a turned community focused local community is by going to after the second or third class, they Other teens volunteer for weekend carry on the ‘Happy Bliss’ mentality. gathering point for local artists, folk organization, Sarah Reinfelder, the Emmett County schools to teach joined our circle. They began playing passes and, in turn, learn about musicians, dancers, and movie buffs. Blissfest Operations Manager, has music workshops and special along with us, playing the egg shaker food waste and how to separate the KEY INFORMATION The idea for the Blissfest Music this to say; “First, what most people education communication through every class. One day the mother spoke festival’s food court garbage, which Festival started as a joint fundraising don’t know, is that we are a 501(c)3 music classes. Sarah relayed one to us after class, sharing that her child allows for a very miniscule amount idea between the Spectrum Center nonprofit organization focusing on instance that displayed how these had begun to look her in the eyes and of waste to go to the dump. Sarah • Blissfest engages over 1,000 vol- and an alternative school in Bliss, sustainability, education, and music education programs are communicate using music. Those are joked, “and then those kids take that unteers that assist in organizing MI, called the Bliss School. The community connections through positively impacting the community: the life changing impacts our programs information home with them and and facilitating these monthly first Blissfest was held for one day music. Apart from the big festival, are bringing to our community and will drive their parents crazy with local events. under a tree in a potato farmer’s we hold events all year round!” She “We were teaching a special education continue to do so.” composting and going green. I’ve • Volunteers are able to apply field in the summer of 1981. Now, in enthused, “We aren’t just a festival; music class and there was one individual heard the stories.” composting and recycling 2020, Blissfest is celebrating its 40th we host some form of an event every in the class who was non-verbal. Their Sarah also spoke of the organization’s lessons to their every-day lives. anniversary. month.” There are over 1,000 mother had never heard them speak in sustainability efforts during the annual Looking towards the future, their 16 years of life, nor had they looked Blissfest Festival. Local sports teams Blissfest hopes to utilize the land FEBRUARY 2020 ISSUE 02

GIVING STORY CIRCLE MICHIGAN By Olivia Rau

GIVING STORY Organized in 1981, Circle Michigan Circle Michigan members volunteer One of the 2018 Field Trip pioneered the very first organization their time to serve on the Circle Transportation Grant recipients was DETROIT METRO CONVENTION in the country focusing on the Michigan Foundation to oversee two CLK Elementary in Calumet. With promotion of group travel. Since programs (listed below) and plan the grant, 92 second grade students then, numerous other states have fundraisers. visited Fort Wilkins State Park as AND VISITORS BUREAU followed their lead. Circle Michigan second grade social studies curriculum By Aubrey Sochacki is dedicated exclusively to helping • Circle Michigan Scholarship. focuses on the local community. On professional tour planners and Circle The Circle Michigan Foundation this trip, the students learned why A couple of years ago, the Detroit Metro Convention and Visitors Bureau Michigan member suppliers meet awards an annual college Fort Wilkins was built and what it (CVB) created an engagement committee to better equip themselves to be 8 9 the challenges unique to the group scholarship to a student attending was like to live there. Joan Darnell, involved in the local communities they serve. Within this committee is the travel industry. a Michigan higher education second grade teacher at CLK volunteer committee. institution, who is enrolled in a Elementary, reported “the second During the late 1990s, Circle Michigan Hospitality and Tourism program. graders learn and remember a lot The volunteer committee has created endless opportunities for the Detroit lost two members to death from Full or part-time students may better by actually being able to be Metro CVB staff members to participate in. Through the committee, the car accidents: Katherine Schmidt apply. Since 2013, the Circle at Fort Wilkins. As the school year CVB has been able to give each staff member volunteer time off up to eight in 1997, who was with the Traverse Michigan Foundation has continues, there are many times I am hours per year to volunteer. City Convention & Visitors Bureau, awarded $3,500 in scholarships. reading a book, showing a picture, or and Scott Brazil in 1998, who was discussing our area’s history and now A few of the volunteerism activities that the Detroit Metro CVB participates with Kewadin Casino of Sault • Circle Michigan Field Trip I am able to bring up something in are collecting mittens for Detroit, a cereal drive, a collection drive for Ste. Marie. Money in the form of Transportation Grant. The Circle we saw on our trip to Fort Wilkins.” school supplies, and donating food to those in need for Thanksgiving. This memorials was given in their honor, Michigan Foundation also past year, the Detroit Metro CVB collected over 300 pairs of gloves and which was placed into a Michigan awards a transportation grant to mittens for the Detroit area. This drive was done internally with members KEY INFORMATION scholarship held by the National any K through 12 educational and clients of the CVB. The CVB also partners with local charities to Tour Association (NTA), located institution within the State of provide food and other needs to those in the community. in Lexington, Kentucky. Over the Michigan. This grant is to be • This year’s Field Trip next 15 years, the fund grew to over used for transportation for field Transportation Grant Application The Detroit Metro Convention and Visitors Bureau is not just focused on $20,000.00. NTA no longer desired trips. Any attraction being period is April 1 – June 20. bringing tourists to the area, but also on caring for those who call the to retain the monies it was holding visited by the school group must • Since 2013, the Circle Michigan community home. so turned the funds over to Circle be a Circle Michigan member Foundation has awarded field Michigan. With this, the Circle attraction. Since 2013, the Circle trip transportation grants to 20 Michigan Foundation was formed Michigan Foundation has Michigan schools. on March 23, 2012. awarded 20 Michigan schools Field Trip Transportation Grants totaling $4,253. FEBRUARY 2020 ISSUE 02

GIVING STORY DOUBLETREE BY HILTON, PORT HURON By Megan Hartmus and Mary Minogue

The DoubleTree by Hilton in community and guest relations. compensating for their volunteer Burch stressed the importance of homes, and soup kitchens” on their Port Huron was recognized for its These programs gave associates the time. Burch explained that “the having the associates of DoubleTree own time. This personal initiative by commitment to the community and opportunity to actively engage in majority of [employees] volunteer at Port Huron involved in choosing employees has created a ripple effect passion for involvement as winner of their neighborhood and find new least once or twice a year.” the organizations and projects they of positive community outreach in the 2019 Governor’s Service Award and exciting causes and events where participate in. The involvement in Port Huron and around the state of for the high level of service the the DoubleTree team could Looking forward, DoubleTree Port decision making drives passion and Michigan. The DoubleTree Port business and its employees provide volunteer. Huron plans to remain ambitious creates motivation for the employees Huron is an outstanding example year after year. in its community outreach. They to give back. This involvement, of businesses getting involved and Amber Burch and her team In 2019, DoubleTree Port Huron would like to expand their horizons paired with excitement to give back, giving back to the community. routinely go above and beyond in volunteered with more than 12 in order to incorporate a bigger facilitates a strong community their support for local groups and organizations, getting involved in project across the state of Michigan. outreach program, which is why the KEY INFORMATION projects in their efforts to be a positive countless projects. Some of these Burch hopes to become involved DoubleTree Port Huron was the force in their neighborhood and organizations include Habitat for with Michigan Cares for Tourism as perfect recipient of the Governor’s beyond. Humanity, The Blue Water Area well as larger initiatives within Service Award. • DoubleTree Port Huron Humane Society, Adopt-A-Highway, Habitat for Humanity, per the participates in community Beginning when the opened Lighthouse Park Cleanup, and request of employees. DoubleTree The associates have enjoyed their outreach and volunteer 10 11 in 2013, community outreach has Adopt a Family. In order to make Port Huron is excited about the community outreach efforts and have opportunities at least once a always been a priority for DoubleTree these projects a success, employees growth of the program and the become passionate about creating month. Port Huron, with support projects have the opportunity to sign up for future of the community outreach their own volunteering experiences. • They find employee’s interest playing a critical role in its mission. projects that interest them the most. impacts. Burch stated, “some [employees] integral in volunteer project The team at DoubleTree formed DoubleTree Port Huron encourages have begun to volunteer at local selection. “Care Committees” to focus on employee involvement by animal shelters, nursing

FEBRUARY 2020 ISSUE 02

GIVING STORY the longer program, people have all the time in the world to experience the best things about Flint and Genesee. The community around Flint and Genesee can talk about their city with much more pride, knowledge, and FLINT AND GENESEE passion. They fall back in love with their city, all thanks to the Flint and CONVENTION AND Genesee CVB. The CVB also has the opportunity for their local community members to VISITORS BUREAU become a Certified Tourism Ambassador (CTA). When asked how the need By Caitlyn Witkamp and Claire Zuwala for a CTA program was identified in Flint and Genesee, Weins responded, “The Flint & Genesee CVB strives daily on changing the perception of the area, which helps the community grow and prosper. The CTA Program Imagine being a tourist in your hometown, kind of a crazy idea, right? You demonstrates our dedication to promoting the destination as one of the have lived there for most of your life, so you should know everything there best, with a high level of commitment to visitors and people that work, live 12 is to know about your sweet little town, where everything is, the places to 13 and play here.” This certification is beneficial to the community members chow down, and the best places for entertainment or fun… but, can you because they get to learn about their city in new ways, and learn how to market your town to others? The Flint and Genesee Convention and Visitor’s encourage others to check out everything that Flint and Genesee has to Bureau (CVB) is trying to change that. offer. This certification builds upon the pride that the residents already feel for their town and helps prepare the community for the long-term as well. “Be A Tourist” is a program that the Flint and Genesee CVB put in place As Wiens puts it, “As Flint and Genesee County increases in popularity, to help change the way the local residents, future residents, and visitors to thousands of people will be experiencing the area for the first time. The CTA the community see Flint and Genesee. Director of the Flint and Genesee Program is the perfect way to prepare and welcome these changes, and CVB, Alaina Wiens shared, “The CVB thought what better way to make visitors, and offer an experience they’ll remember forever… the program residents aware of what is happening with all the development downtown helps us all prepare for the future. and throughout the county than by having a day where they can see a bunch of new buildings, attractions, and historical venues, while providing the transportation to them all for $1.” KEY INFORMATION

When the “Be A Tourist” program started seven years ago, it was a one-day • “Be A Tourist” is a program to help change the way the local residents, event that showed the best things about Flint and Genesee. Now it is a future residents, and visitors to the community see Flint and Genesee. five-month event that encompasses so much more. Wiens said that the • The “Certified Tourism Ambassador” program offers a chance for the transformation into a larger event “says great things about our community. community to promote their love of their hometown. That we have enough things going on throughout Genesee County that we would be able to provide an experience based on certain activities of interest.”

Another benefit of the program now being five months is that people don’t feel like they have to pick-and-choose what activities they want to do. With

FEBRUARY 2020 GIVING STORY GIVING STORY PICTURED ROCKS BOAT CRUISE THE MITTEN BREWING COMPANY By Megan Heynen By Olivia Rau

If you live in Michigan, there is a for adults. Another type of cruise people attended. Not only have they The Mitten Brewing Company is a vintage baseball themed microbrewery good chance that you have heard of offered is the “spray” cruise. Spray had a great turnout of people, but located in a historic firehouse, Engine House #9, in Grand Rapids’ West the Upper Peninsula’s (UP) Pictured cruises are generally 2 hours and 15 the number of vendors has grown Side. Since its opening in 2012, the Mitten has built a unique reputation for 14 15 Rocks. However, there is less of a minutes and costs $45. The spray as well. In 2019, they had over 100 pairing high-quality craft beers and gourmet pizzas with community involvement. chance that you have had the cruise follows the same course as any vendors present. It has also turned Giving back to the local community is a core value of the Mitten—they have opportunity to go up to the UP and other, but they continue further and into a multi-day event with music, given more than $300,000 in charitable gifts to local nonprofits since 2012. see them with your own eyes. encounter an extra waterfall called food, crafts, a petting zoo, and so While the brewery’s commitment to their community through volunteerism Pictured Rocks is located on the Spray Falls. Since these cruises have much more. Madigan stated that the and charitable giving has been evident from the beginning, the organization South shore of Lake Superior and is been getting more popular over the benefits from this event have been further bolstered their philanthropic capacity by forming their own nonprofit a strip of unusual sandstone formations years, they wanted to make sure huge. When asked about the benefits foundation in 2017, Mitten Foundation. that goes on for miles. Pictured the residents of the UP were being and drawbacks, Madigan said the Rocks has always been a popular involved. only drawback is the amount of The mission of the foundation reads, “Mitten Foundation exists to enhance tourist destination. Over 50 years work it takes to put it together each and elevate our community by utilizing the resources of The Mitten ago, Pictured Rocks Cruises, LLC John Madigan, General Manager of year, but that it is 100 percent worth Brewing Co. and partners.” The simplicity of this mission feeds into the began offering boat rides around the Pictured Rocks Cruises and a native it and they plan to continue it for foundation’s criteria for selecting its nonprofit partners: 1) it must be a local rocks to allow visitors to see them of Munising, along with his team years to come. organization, and 2) it must be small enough that the donation will make a up close and personal. These cruises discovered that most people who live measurable difference. The foundation’s care in selecting truly local organizations run from mid-May through mid- in the Upper Peninsula (also known that are in the greatest need helps them to connect each dollar donated to the October, as those are the warmest as “Yoopers”) had not been on the KEY INFORMATION effect it has in the community. months in Michigan. cruise. Madigan decided they were going to do something about this. • 3,000 Yoopers attended last In 2019 alone, Mitten Foundation gave $10,000 to offset in shelter costs for As the years have passed, these In 2012, the organization created year’s Pictured Rock Days survivors of domestic abuse, $4,100 in sports equipment for inner city youth, cruises have grown in popularity. a day where the first 600 Yoopers event. $2,266 in classroom supply grants for teachers, and much more. They also Pictured Rocks Cruises has different who showed their ID could ride for • Prior to this initiative, most utilized their resources to help alleviate the burden of local food insecurity cruise options for guests, two of free. After their first year of doing Yoopers had not been on a by supporting 60,000 meals through Feeding America in West Michigan them are the “classic” and the this, more businesses and people Pictured Rocks cruise. food pantries, 10,000 meals through Kids’ Food Basket, and by providing and “sunset.” These cruises are about 2 got involved. The event has grown serving over 2,000 slices of pizza. Given the Mitten Brewing Co. and Mitten hours and 35 minutes and cost $38 from 60, to 1,000, and last year 3,000 Foundation’s impressive philanthropic track record and community involvement accomplishments of 2019, we are excited to see what’s in store for 2020! ISSUE 02

PHILANTHROPIC ARTICLE FEATURE CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY EMPLOYS MANY MODELS TO STRATEGICALLY ALIGN BUSINESS AND PHILANTHROPY By Patty Janes and Olivia Rau

While there are a variety of terms increase from less than 20% reporting recognizing that organizational fair trade supplier relationships; or (SBE Council, 2018). in use to describe an organization’s their CSR efforts in 2011 (Coppola, 2017). practice’s range and subsequent practices that are externally focused, Despite their undeniably large part social giving (corporate citizenship, benefits to society and the from energy and waste saving in the U.S. workforce, the Global triple bottom line, etc.), corporate CSR Models. Definitions and models organization also vary accordingly. practices to disaster relief. Reporting Initiative found that social responsibility (CSR) is often attempting to explain the CSR only 10% of SMEs conduct annual used as an overarching term. CSR phenomena have evolved significantly The matrix (Figure 1) demonstrates SMEs strategically embracing CSR. sustainability reports (GRI, 2016). can be defined as actions outside an over the years. Early analysis focused that some efforts have a higher Although more and more companies As such, SMEs are not reaping the organization’s normal scope of on the obligation of businesses to benefit to society than to business. are engaging in and reporting on same CSR benefits as those that business that seek to address the consider how their decisions impact At the low impact, “pet projects” their CSR activities, commitment have strategically implemented and needs of the community beyond surrounding communities and meet level, employees may ask those in the levels are wide ranging, and thus the publicly report their philanthropic pure economics (Carroll, 1999). public expectations (Davis & workplace to adopt a family during benefits are too. What also varies is initiatives. These activities seek to align social Blomstrom, 1966). Archie Carroll’s the holidays. More significant giving the size and types of organizations 16 good and ethical obligations with (1999) CSR Pyramid sought to occurs in “philanthropy,” where the taking strategic action. FIGURE 1: McKinsey & Co.’s CSR Matrix 17 business objectives. CSR is a reconcile four categories of business organization may identify a charitable In 2020, CSR will continue to evolve function to meet — and hopefully responsibilities — economic, legal, cause to support throughout year. While top performers in the private strategically for SMEs as they too exceed — stakeholder expectations. ethical, and philanthropic — stating These examples could be classified as sector are the most documented, will benefit their communities and that organizations’ philanthropic corporate philanthropy. the CSR trend isn’t limited to only help solve social issues while, in Throughout this last decade, CSR in responsibility didn’t begin until the largest of organizations. Small turn, more successfully achieving various shapes has taken deeper root. profitability occurred. Newer models What Keys and colleagues label as and medium enterprises (SMEs) their organizational objectives. A 2015 KPMG Survey of Corporate attempt to situate CSR and market “propaganda” are efforts in which are embracing CSR, however some Responsibility Reporting estimated value within a single conceptual the benefits to society are low, but scholars suggest fewer are producing that 92% of the Fortune 250 took framework (García-de-Madariaga high to the organization. For example, annual reports and engaging with action toward a larger social mission & Rodríguez-de-Rivera-Cermades, a hotel asking guests to help save the CSR as a strategic initiative (Perälä Read the full article, along with 10 other and produced an annual report 2010). environment by not having linens & Saukkonen, 2017). Yet, small trends in philanthropy in the Dorothy A. summarizing their actions and washed daily during their multi-day businesses account for nearly half Johnson Center for Philanthropy’s most impacts. These activities vary Another recent approach by Tracee stay may or may not benefit society. of the U.S. workforce and over 30 recent trends report at... widely, but share the intent to Keys, Thomas Malnight, and However, the financial savings to the million organizations (Giese, 2019). benefit both the “organization” — Kees van der Graaf (2009) is to use organization is significant. Further, of the 5.6 million employer www. johnsoncenter.org/wp-content/ through motivated employees and McKinsey & Co.’s matrix, which firms in the U.S. in 2016 “the vast uploads/2020/01/11-Trends-for-2020- increased profits — and the pinpoints CSR’s primary objective: Finally, those actions of high value majority (88%) of employer firms Report.pdf “community” it serves — by to align successful business practices to both the organization and society have fewer than 20 employees, and addressing relevant social issues. while pursuing benefits to society. are defined as “strategic.” These nearly 40% of all enterprises have Further, 82% of the S&P 500 Ultimately, this model leads to include practices that center around under $100k in revenue” (JP Morgan produced reports detailing their CSR “strategic” CSR that results in high the organization, from employee Chase & Co., n.d.). In fact, 98.2% of initiatives in 2016, a significant benefits for society and for business, volunteerism in resources to firms have fewer than 100 employees ISSUE 02

PHILANTHROPIC ARTICLE FEATURE CONFERENCE VOLUNTEERING: AN EMERGING TREND By Amanda Witsaman

A new trend regarding volunteering that cares about making a difference The meetings industry has seen an guests to create menstrual kits for was an incredible experience. Not in the is conference in the lives of others. increase in the desire for “local women in need from Pittsburgh, only were we able to make a volunteering. Associations are more experiences” with 47 percent of which was the city where the difference, but we were easily able commonly requesting that volunteer While volunteering association association members interviewed conference was held. Other volunteer to tap into a group of volunteers that opportunities be provided at conferences affiliates have the pleasure of being being interested in service-related opportunities allowed for attendees were passionate about increasing the for their attendees. Practices able to interact with one another in activities (Tore, 2018). Those who to pack school supplies for public value of others’ experiences. I was demonstrating corporate social a less stressful setting. Through this are going to meetings want to be able schools in the area. PCMA is one of able to connect with individuals in responsibility and the triple bottom experience, members can develop to immerse themselves in the city many associations that sees the value my industry while participating in line are not reserved for businesses their ability to work as a team as well they are visiting. What better way in bringing industry professionals the event. Early in the day, we were alone, and associations are now, as communicate with other association to do so than through volunteering. together to not only network, further worried about the amount of work more than ever, making an effort members that they may not have had Attendees are not only learning more educate themselves on the industry, we had to get done, but because of to positively impact not only their the chance to meet before. Some of about the local area, but also positively and socialize, but to also positively the incredibly strong work ethic and members but the communities that these opportunities to communicate impacting it. Volunteering at impact the surrounding community positive attitude of the volunteers, their meetings are held in as well. and build relationships with fellow conferences provides both personal through service. we got everything done that we had 19 19 Association members gain benefits members may even lead to advancing and professional benefits and continues set out to do.” Anglim represents from volunteering including team one’s career. For example, a student to gain momentum each passing In Michigan, annual conferences how an attendee’s experience can be building, advancing one’s career, association member interviewed as year. such as the Pure Michigan Governor’s positively impacted or enhanced by building morale, and feeling pride in part of a study done by ASAE found Conference on Tourism support the addition of a volunteer experience being a part of their specific that when he volunteered with his The Professional Convention volunteer efforts. In fact, at the Pure and how volunteering allows for the MC4T & PMGCT association. association he was able to communicate Management Association (PCMA) Michigan Governor’s Conference on opportunity to make both personal more freely. He felt comfortable to Convening Leaders Conference Tourism in March of 2019, attendees and professional connections. For the past three years, Michigan One of the main benefits associations discuss work projects with other incorporates volunteer opportunities were able to participate in volunteer Cares for Tourism (MC4T) has have seen from providing members professionals in his field due to the and truly sees a benefit in doing so. opportunities facilitated by Michigan kicked off the Pure Michigan the opportunity to volunteer is an open environment that volunteer The President and CEO of this Cares for Tourism. Michigan Cares Governor’s Conference on Tourism increase in retention. In fact, according events foster. He also communicated association, Sherrif Karamat, said, for Tourism offered attendees the (PMGCT) with a half-day volunteer to The Center for Association that after he was involved in this “Connecting individuals through chance to paint or build up nonprofit event. Through this, conference Leadership, 73 percent of association volunteer experience he was filled social impact projects transforms attractions in the Grand Traverse attendees are able to engage with members agree that when they are with gratitude and a of lives and creates a legacy extending area. the local organizations and the given the opportunity to volunteer satisfaction being a part of his beyond the gathering itself” conference destination community. with their association they feel more association (Dignam & Gazley, 2008). (PCMA, 2019). This conference Conference attendee and Michigan Last year, 50 industry volunteers inclined to be loyal to their association provided volunteer opportunities on Student Scholarship winner, Thomas made an impact working with compared to if their association did In addition to the benefits of all four days of the event which took Anglim, shared about his experience nonprofit, Norte, and hospital not provide opportunities to volunteer volunteering discussed above, place from January 6 through volunteering and how it affected his lodging house, Munson Manor, (ASAE, 2016). This is due to the associations have seen a rise in their January 9, 2019. One of the overall view of the conference. Anglim in Traverse City. employee feeling a sense of pride members wanting to explore a local opportunities allowed for conference stated, “volunteering at the 2019 being affiliated with an organization area when they are at conferences. Governor’s Conference on Tourism ISSUE 02

MICHIGAN SEPTEMBER 17-18 A Two-Day Event at Grand Traverse Lighthouse CARES FOR and TOURISM Over 300 volunteers made an impact on the 1,300-acre northern most tip of the Leelanau Peninsula. Twenty-six different projects ranging from 2019 REVIEW playground installation, accessible trail development, and repainting and staining multiple buildings were completed during the day with the local Lion’s Club hosting breakfast and lunch on site. Our 100 percent volunteer/give-back partnership with Michigan tourism organizations and professionals continues to provide opportunities MARCH 5 to give, learn, and grow together. Pure Michigan Governor’s Conference To date, collectively as a tourism on Tourism (PMGCT) community, we have invested over $750,000 in labor and supply savings to various projects engaging 2,930 For the third year, MC4T kicked off last year’s PMGCT with 50 industry industry volunteers and hundreds volunteers making an impact on Norte and Munson Manor in Traverse City. of tourism organizations. Your Conference volunteers painted the entire first floor of Munson Manor, made contribution has made a difference in meals for hospital lodging guests, donated a freezer and daily living supplies. restoring historic, cultural, and Additionally, 25 training obstacles were funded and built for children to learn natural Michigan attractions, building mountain biking. 21 a stronger tourism community, promoting destinations, and creating enhanced visitor experiences. Other Volunteer Events! We continue to invest in ways to better serve Michigan’s tourism industry in 2019…and, here are some MC4T was involved with a few events in Grand Rapids in 2019. Grand highlights: Valley State University (GVSU) students planned another student-led MC4T event along the White Pine Trail in Riverside Park in Grand Rapids, GVSU 1. Planned and coordinated four alumni planned a painting project to help restore the 100-year-old, 22 volunteer events for 515 industry Sheldon Building (home to the first West Michigan Tourist Association volunteers resulting in excess office!), and the Adopt-A-Bed program continued with tulip bulb planting of $150,000 in labor and supply and a second year of spring time care. savings to these sites. 2. Solicited donations to fund project supplies securing nearly RIVERSIDE PARK 22 SHELDON BUILDING ADOPT-A-BED 60 donor organizations. 3. Coordinated Michigan’s Pure Award recognizing the 2019 award winning Detroit Jazz Festival Foundation. 4. Created the first Michigan Giv- ing publication to highlight the many ways Michigan’s tourism industry gives. FEBRUARY 2020 ISSUE 02 2019 stats Leelanau State Park Monday, Sept. 17 - Roll up our sleeves

300 helping hands.

IMPACT REPORT 26 revitalization projects. 20192018 September 16-17 About Leelanau State Park Approximately 300 Michigan tourism professionals $60,000 in donated labor. headed to beautiful Leelanau Peninsula to help with several revitalization projects Sept. 16-17. 65 donor organizations. As part of the project, volunteers helped replace a split rail fence, worked on park trails, installed a new playground, worked on the Through the years historic lighthouse, removed Together, more than 400 tourism brush and much more. organizations and nearly 3,000 tourism industry professionals have made MC4T Volunteers also learned a reality. Leelanau State Park about the region with visits was the eighth to Fishtown, Suttons Bay, Approximately $750,000 in supplies and multi-day event Black Star Farms winery labor have been donated to all the sites. and many other Leelanau since 2013 and the Peninsula attractions. The MC4T volunteer board held 300 27th MC4T event calls for about 13,000 minutes to help Leelanau State park, located sort out details and plan the various overall. at the tip of the little  nger projects. on the beautiful Leelanau Peninsula, s home to a rustic campground, hiking and “This is huge for us, because we don’t necessarily have the resources cross-country skiing trails. to do all these kinds of things on our own. It’s just an incredible, incredible value to us.” - Stephanie Staley, Executive Director of the Grand Traverse Lighthouse Museum & Friends of Leelanau State Park MC4T VOLUNTEERS, DONOR/MEMBERS, AND THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS MADE THIS POSSIBLE!

Leelanau State Park - Grand Traverse Lighthouse 2019

Black Star Farms Bavarian Inn Lodge Calhoun County Visitors Bureau Cherry Republic DoubleTree by Hilton Port Huron Grand Hotel Grand Traverse and Spa GZG Hospitality / Comfort Inn & Suites Paw Paw Inland Seas Education Association Kimberly Mormando, CAS Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail Livingston County Convention & Visitors Bureau Madonna University Munising Visitors Bureau Rylee’s Ace Hardware Scott Wack Family Construction South Haven / Van Buren County Convention & Visitors Bureau

25

- FOUNDING PARTNERS - REFERENCES

CONFERENCE VOLUNTEERING: AN EMERGING TREND CSR EMPLOYS MANY MODELS TO STRATEGICALLY ALIGN BUSINESS AND PHILANTHOPY

ASAE. (2016, April 18). Maximizing Volunteer Involvement. Retrieved April 14, 2019, from Carroll, A. B. (1999). Corporate Social Responsibility: Evolution of a Definitional Construct. Business & https://www.asaecenter.org/resources/articles/an_plus/2016/april/maximizing-volunteer-involvement Society, 38(3), 268–295. https://doi.org/10.1177/000765039903800303 MC4T BOARD OF DIRECTORS FOUNDING BOARD OF DIRECTORS Gazley, B., & Dignam, M. (2008). The decision to volunteer: Why people give their time and how you can engage them. Chase, L., Karim, S. & Rangan, K. (2015). The truth about CSR. Harvard Business Review. Retrieved from Washington, D.C: ASAE & the Center for Association Leadership. https://hbr.org/2015/01/the-truth-about-csr

Nester, J. (2018, November 26). Pure Michigan Governor’s Conference on Tourism. Retrieved June 14, 2019, from Coppola, L. Governance & Accountability Institute, Inc. (G&A)). (May 31, 2017). Flash report: 82% of the https://conference.checkinmichigan.org/schedule/ S&P 500 companies published corporate sustainability reports in 2016. Retrieved from Kirsten Borgstrom, Pubhound PR Patty Janes, Grand Valley State University https://www.3blmedia.com/News/Flash-Report-82-SP-500-Companies-Published-Corporate-Sustainability-Reports-2016 PCMA. (2019, January 09). Social Impact: Give Back, Help Out, Pitch In at Convening Leaders. Retrieved April 14, 2019, from https://www.pcma.org/social-impact-convening-leaders-2019/ Davis, K. & Blomstrom, R. L. (1966). Business and its environment. New York: McGrawHill. Megan Carra, FireKeepers Casino Hotel Dave Lorenz, Travel Michigan Tore, O. (2018, August 28). Survey reveals the Meetings Industry Trends for 2018. Retrieved April 14, 2019, from Font, X. & Lynes, J. (2018). Corporate social responsibility in tourism and hospitality. Journal of Corinne Christensen, Madonna University Gordon Mackay, Indian Trails https://ftnnews.com/mice/33784-survey-reveals-the-meetings-industry-trends-for-2018 , 26:7, 1027-1042, DOI: 10.1080/09669582.2018.1488856

García-de-Madariaga, Jesús & Rodríguez-de-Rivera-Cremades, Fernando. (2010). Corporate social Dave Clouse, It’s All About Service Consulting Paul Stansbie, Grand Valley State University Responsibility and the classical theory of the firm: Are both theories irreconcilable? Innovar, 20(37), 5-19. Retrieved from http://www.scielo.org.co/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S0121 Rita Cooper, Grand Valley State University Maia Turek, Michigan Department of Natural Resources -50512010000200002&lng=en&tlng=en.

Giese, C. (October 7, 2019). How many small businesses are in the U.S.? (And other employment stats). Denny Hensen, Map-n-Tour, Inc. Kevin Woods, Driven Creative Supply Co. Retrieved from https://www.fundera.com/blog/small-business-employment-and-growth-statistics Gary Jones, Michigan Department of Natural Resources Tourism Cares Global Reporting Initiative (GRI). (October 5, 2016). Making the case for SME sustainability reporting. Retrieved from https://www.globalreporting.org/information/news-and-press-center/Pages/Small-Business,-Big-Impact- Making-the-case-for-SME-Sustainability-Reporting.aspx Rachel Kammer, Marriott, Inc. JP Morgan Chase & Co. (n.d.) Small business are an anchor of the US economy. Retrieved from Jessica Loding, Schupan & Sons, Inc. https://www.jpmorganchase.com/corporate/institute/small-business-economic.htm

Kania, J., Kramer, M. & Russell, P. (2014). Strategic philanthropy for a complex world. Stanford Social Jane Lovett, Peaches Bed & Breakfast, Ltd Innovation Review. 26-37. Retrieved from https://ssir.org/up_for_debate/article/strategic_ philanthropy# Olivia Rau, Grand Valley State University Keys, T., Malnight, T. & van der Graaf, K. (2009) Making the most of corporate social responsibility. Retrieved from https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/leadership/making-the-most-of-corporate-social-responsibility Nancy Ruppert, Experience Grand Rapids KPMG. (November 25, 2015). The KPMG survey of corporate responsibility reporting 2015. Retrieved from https://home.kpmg/xx/en/home/insights/2015/11/kpmg-international-survey-of-corporate-responsibility-reporting-2015. Dan Sippel, West Michigan Tourist Association html

Moody, M. (February 13, 2019). The boundaries are blurring between philanthropy and business. Victoria Stubbs, Grand Valley State University Retrieved from https://johnsoncenter.org/boundaries-are-blurring/ Renee Newman-Theil Perälä, V. & Saukkonen, A. (2017). Exploring the usage of csr in small and medium-sized companies. Retrieved from https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/6fd3/0b138a5d440efc707c37f7e3e9656dfa 16b0.pdf Ami Van Antwerp, Michigan Department of Natural Resources Small Business & Entrepreneurship (SBE) Council. (2018). Facts & data on small business and entrepreneurship. Retrieved from https://sbecouncil.org/about-us/facts-and-data ISSUE 02 Michigan’s thumb region Sleeper & Port Crescent State Parks September 14-15, 2020

Michigan Cares for Tourism is a 100% volunteer, 100% give-back partnership where tourism professionals come together to help restore Michigan’s historic, cultural and natural attractions, learn about tourism destinations and network across industry segments.

Join us! Register for the 2020 volunteer event!

Pure Michigan Governor’s Conference rate (Through Feb. 20, 2020) $50

Event rate (Feb. 21 to July 31, 2020) $75

Student rate $25 Late registration (After Aug. 1, 2020) $100 *Price increase does not apply if you or your employer is a MC4T member/donor

Michigan’s Thumb region covers 150 miles of shoreline, small-town charm, maritime history and much more. Albert E. Sleeper State Park offers both sunrises and sunsets on the bay, a modern campground and trails along the ancient dune forests. Port Crescent State Park is home to three miles of sandy shoreline, a dark sky preserve, a modern campground, trails and much more.

To register, text “MC4T” to 76959 or visit MichiganCaresForTourism.org