For Chase Home Executive Director Meme Wheeler, it is not often she receives a phone call from anyone who wants to drop off a financial contribution, which made it incredibly special when Sprague called her.
“They called and wanted to drop off a check that morning—I was thrilled,” she said.
She said she was even more thrilled upon their arrival when it turned out the contribution was for$2,132. Delivered in the form of checks and cash, the donation resulted from one of several philanthropic initiatives spearheaded by the JustGive team at Sprague, which was formed 17 years ago. An acronym for “Just Get Involved Volunteer Everyone” and composed of Sprague employees, JustGive implements various charitable initiatives, including Dress Down Days, Canned Food Drive Competitions, Coat Donation Drives and Formal Fridays and more.
According to Chris Hiney, a member of the JustGive team at Sprague, Formal Friday is the initiative that provided the $2,132 financial contribution to Chase Home.
“Participants were asked to wear corporate interview appropriate or formal wear and contribute $2 or more,” she said. “We were happy to count 85 Sprague employees dressed sharp for the day and one of our executives matched the collected contributions.”
As for why they selected Chase Home as their beneficiary, she said they wanted to support an organization not currently receiving donations from the Sprague JustGive team.
“A search of Portsmouth area organizations began—and when the Chase Home came up among the results, we thought there’s no better program to receive the donation just before the holidays,” said Hiney.
According to Wheeler, the financial contribution represents “a serious boost” to their operations.
“I cannot thank Sprague enough,” she said. “Their unexpected generosity means so much to us and the kids we serve.”
In giving to Chase Home and dozens of other nonprofit agencies over the years, Hiney said such philanthropic intent has defined Sprague’s 145-year history on the Seacoast.
“We have always emphasized the importance of giving back to the communities in which we operate,” she said. “We focus our efforts on supporting organizations and events that benefit children and the environment.”
Founded in 1877 as an orphanage, Chase Home has evolved through the years to meet needs in the community related to children and youth. Offering a home for some and working with others in their own homes, Chase Home provides evidence-based treatment and support to families in crisis.
To learn more about Chase Home, or to offer support, visit www.chasehome.org.