Seven years ago I became involved with an organization called The Family Tree, a statewide organization based in Baltimore. The Family Tree is a non-profit with a mission to prevent child abuse, educate parents on how to raise children and provide a variety of other services for families in need. The Family Tree has a staff of approximately 40 employees and an operations budget of around $3 million. The charity helps over 15,000 children every year.

Helion currently provides information technology (IT) services and equipment to The Family Tree. In the past seven years we have helped them with strategic planning, donated new workstations and other equipment, and provided Help Desk and other IT services.

Because The Family Tree is a charity, Helion helps out when it can with its events. The Family Tree is a major beneficiary of the Best of Baltimore, a yearly competition and event hosted by Baltimore Magazine. This year I led the event and was able to promote ticket sales through Helion’s social media. This year 2,000 people attended and we are pleased that we played a major role in the event promotion. Our employees volunteer to help out at The Family Tree’s community event and walk by creating walk teams and helping with execution of the day’s logistics. 

I bring this to your attention because it's a cause I care about and a great organization. Also because during the holidays, it's important to give back and remember those less fortunate. The Family Tree's Executive Director, Pat Cronin, shares this poignant advice about the holidays:

"This time of year it's important to manage expectations. For many this is a happy time of year, but for many others it's a very stressful time of year," says Cronin. "Some families cannot afford to buy gifts for their children. Some people are dealing with loss or remember childhoods that were not happy. Remember it's okay if your family is different. The definition of family can be expanded, to friends and people who care about you. The important thing is to nurture positive relationships."

This time of year can be very hectic. The Family Tree reminds families to slow down and savor the moments that matter. Read a book to your child, or watch a holiday show or movie with them. Visit your aging relatives. Time with loved ones is more precious than efforts spent to find that perfect gift. If you're interested in learning more about The Family Tree, visit www.familytreemd.org

How does your dealership give back during the holidays?