Michelman has completed a $750,000 global philanthropic pledge, directing a portion of the funding to several Greater Cincinnati nonprofits that support families, promote sustainability and strengthen local communities.
The Cincinnati-based company made the pledge in 2024 to mark its 75th anniversary. Throughout the year, employees worldwide nominated nonprofit organizations they believed were making meaningful contributions to their communities.
Michaelman – a manufacturer of eco-friendly materials used in coatings, packaging, printings, etc. – ultimately funded more than 100 nonprofits across the Americas, Europe and Asia, selecting 14, including the Cincinnati-area recipients, for larger, transformational gifts.
Among the local organizations receiving major gifts:
- Green Umbrella, Greater Cincinnati’s regional climate collaborative, will use the funds to support sustainability and equity-focused initiatives.
- New Life Furniture Bank, the region’s only nationally registered furniture bank, will furnish homes for 125 families transitioning out of crisis, reduce costs for partner agencies and launch an impact study.
- People Working Cooperatively, which provides critical home repairs and accessibility modifications for low-income, elderly and disabled homeowners, will use the donation to equip volunteers and support housing security.
- Easterseals Redwood, which helps people with disabilities and veterans gain skills and employment, received support for ongoing operations.
“Our associates are incredible,” said Dr. Rick Michelman, president and CEO. “We were inspired by the number and quality of organizations our associates brought forward, many of which they already support through volunteer work.”
A commitment to giving back
Michelman’s commitment to local impact also extended beyond financial donations. On Sept. 13, 2024, the company hosted its 13th annual Commitment to Community Day, pausing global operations to allow more than 400 employees in the United States, Belgium, China, France, India, Luxembourg and Singapore to volunteer with nonprofit partners.
In Greater Cincinnati, associates worked at sites including Brighton Center, Easterseals Redwood, Freestore Foodbank, Gorman Heritage Farm, Great Parks of Hamilton County, Hopes Closet, Last Mile Food Rescue, New Life Furniture Bank, Operation Give Back, Stepping Stones Ohio, United Way and YMCA Camp Ernst. Volunteer projects included cleaning and painting a family center, clearing brush, landscaping, packing meal kits and sorting clothing and food donations.
Beyond its regional support, Michelman awarded grants to international nonprofits focused on disability inclusion, civic engagement, environmental stewardship and STEM education.
“This anniversary is a celebration of our legacy and our future,” Michelman said. “We are honored to support organizations that are making a difference in the communities we call home.”
Michelman’s community partnerships
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