| Text of the firm's letter: Dear Clients and Associates:
For the past several years, our firm has chosen to adopt families less fortunate in lieu of sending holiday gifts and cards. This year, we have adopted four families. These particular families face not only economic hardships, but include victims of abuse and severe handicaps.
As we reflect upon 2004 and go into the holiday season, we count among our many blessings our relationship with you. We appreciate the confidence you have shown in us, and we look forward to working with you in 2005.
In the true spirit of this special season, we sincerely thank you for your friendship. Our best wishes to you, and your family, for happy holidays and a healthy and prosperous New Year!
Sincerely,
The Principals and Associates at DiGiovine, Hnilo, Jordan & Johnson, Ltd. |
Instead of just giving money to an organization,
DiGiovine, Hnilo, Jordan & Johnson, Ltd., a CPA firm in midwestern Naperville, Illinois, has been
adopting families for seven years during the holidays. The firm has a total staff of 47 with approximately 26 who are CPAs.
"Everyone usually contributes and I receive one check from the firm itself," said
Annmarie Siwik, Director of Marketing at DHJJ (630.420.1360 X 225 and
asiwik@dhjj.com). "I find the families, which can be from nonprofit service clubs, police department social workers, county offices and churches. I talk to a family member (usually a single Mom) or the social worker and obtain the wish list along with clothing sizes."
"I collect the money, do all the shopping. Everyone helps with wrapping."
She keeps everyone posted as to what she learns about each family. For example, one family this year was found through a social worker at the police department--a single mom with three children, ages 1, 3 and 6. They were currently not living in their home because of an abusive situation. They had no toys and are were in need of winter clothing, because the father has been in jail twice because of the abuse.
"The more info I give out, the more employees feel part of the program and they increase their giving," she said. Besides gifts, grocery cards, respite home certificates (for handicapped children), the firm also buys gas or Walmart cards.
Siwik sends out a letter about the program on holiday paper to firm clients and referral sources. The response is very positive. "Some of our clients and referral sources have even offered to pitch in for the gifts because they think it is such a great program," she said. Comments from clients and referral sources include:
"We are impressed with your adopt-a-family program. We would like to know more so our company can do this." Siwik said the client has set up its own adopt-a-family program and actually has copied parts of the DHJJ holiday letter.
"Thank you for giving back to our community. Who needs more candy or fruit cake anyway!"
"Your holiday letter touched our hearts. How can we contribute? We would also like to make a difference."
The firm Web site says, "We believe in giving back to our community. Every member of our team is encouraged to not only support but become actively involved in various organizations." The site lists 45 charities it supports. DHJJ has been providing accounting, tax and consulting services to closely-held businesses and entrepreneurs for more than 30 years. See http://www.dhjj.com/.
