In celebration of founder's legacy, Publix organizes #PublixServes event

LAKELAND, Fla. — More than 4,000 Publix associates across the company’s six operating states will be volunteering Friday with more than 125 local nonprofit organizations whose focus is on youth, education and/or the plight of the hungry and homeless.

 

In the company’s first organized annual day of service, associates will be giving of their time and talents along with $1,000 — plus $85 for their anniversary — per district. The funds will help purchase items needed for food pantries, soup kitchens, backpack programs, beautification efforts and reading libraries just to name a few. See the activity by following the hashtag #PublixServes.

 

 

 

The company launched Publix Serves earlier this month as its community program that unites its more than 175,000 associates in community service efforts.

 

“Publix Serves celebrates our associates and embraces our communities. We’re thrilled to have more than 4,000 associates volunteering today in the communities we serve,” said Maria Brous, director of media and community relations. “Community service is ingrained in our culture – it’s who we are. We serve our customers in our stores; we serve each other and our communities in times of need. There is nothing more gratifying than to hear and see the impact our associates make in our communities each and every day.”

 

Publix celebrates its 85th anniversary this year and is sharing with associates and customers lessons from their founder, George Jenkins. April’s lesson is Give Back. Jenkins was once asked how much he thought he would be worth if he hadn’t given so much away. Without hesitation he responded, “Probably nothing.” He believed in the importance of giving, and he set the example for being involved in the community. He felt giving back was an investment, a responsibility and a privilege.