Honor Garden Recognizes Veterans at JBM and Beyond
In its second year, JBM’s Honor Garden program provided a stunning visual display honoring those who served on Veterans Day. A “garden” of over 300 flags greeted visitors and team members working at JBM’s headquarters in Lebanon, Ohio. With more than 30 team members participating in the program this year, more than $1700 was raised to support the Combat Veterans Motorcycle Association (CVMA), an organization of combat veterans representing all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces. Each flag was dedicated to a special veteran connected to a JBM team member.
In the weeks leading up to Veterans Day, JBM invited team members to dedicate a flag honoring a special veteran in their life. The company matched each donation, with 100 percent of the proceeds supporting the CVMA. Last year’s program generated more than $1,000, which the CVMA used to purchase wood and materials for a ramp installed at the home of a wheelchair-bound veteran. Proceeds also provided Christmas gifts and meals for two local veteran families.
Last year’s Honor Garden funds went toward the construction of a ramp for a wheel-chair bound veteran.
David Smith, Training Coordinator, is a member of the Cincinnati CVMA Chapter and has helped facilitate the partnership. One of the things he finds to be unique about the organization is the CVMA members’ ongoing commitment to service.
“The CVMA is a national organization with chapters represented in each state,” he said. “It exists because of its members, and with additional support from companies like JBM, we can expand our reach to veterans in need.”
JBM charity committee members helped with the honor garden installation (left to right): Lisa Parker, Michelle Werner, Steve Casto, Scott Loy and Luke Willman.
While the program helps veterans beyond JBM, it also honors JBM team members who have served. Katie Humphreville, a JBM Sales Executive, served in the Air Force. She felt humbled to be recognized and honored to be able to appreciate a few of her own family members.
“This event is one of many reasons I am very proud to be part of the JBM Packaging family,” she said.
As the program continues to grow, JBM hopes to recognize and support more deserving veterans. Thanks to JBM Charity committee members who helped assist with the program, including Steve Casto, Scott Loy, Lisa Parker, Michelle Werner, and Luke Willman. Additional team members who were critical to the success of the initiative include Karen Volk (donation processing) and Beth Della Bella (flag dedications). If you would like more information about JBM’s Honor Garden project, please contact us.
