DETROIT- Many gathered at the Fox Theater the night of Nov. 28 as Steve Cahillane, Chairman, President & CEO of Kellanova (formerly known as Kellogg Co.) received the Corporate Social Impact Leader Award. The award comes in part from their strong engagement with United Way of South Central Michigan, a relationship that spans decades.
“When it comes to social impact, Kellanova brings a superpower that most companies lack: humble, compassionate leadership,” said UWSCMI President and Executive Officer Chris Sargent.
Sargent mentioned how their Breakfast For Better Days strategy tackles food insecurity so effectively- by working alongside local food banks, urban gardens, and other agencies and volunteers to feed communities together.
Kellanova takes immense satisfaction in its company-wide culture of volunteering and giving back through its Volunteer With Me program, encouraging both company leaders and employees to volunteer in their communities. Since 2015, Kellanova employees have volunteered over 130,000 hours in communities around the world to help make food more sustainable and accessible.
While taking pride in serving community, Kellanova takes a little bit extra in their hometown of Battle Creek. They have donated more than $23.1 million to the United Way of South Central Michigan over the last decade, invested $500,000 in the Battle Creek Small Business Loan Fund, and given $500,000 to the Southwest Michigan Accelerator Kitchen to assist the launch of new food businesses in the community.
Sargent added that by promoting volunteerism, investing in collective impact, and by coming to the table as a partner instead of a self-appointed savior, the people of Kellanova set a standard for service and impact that serves as a global model. Whether it be volunteering or donating resources, they are willing to do whatever it takes to make a positive impact and make sure people are fed and fulfilled.
“By connecting with organizations like United Way, Kellanova taps local expertise and insights on the challenges people face, then offer their resources to promote change together,” he said. “We, along with our communities, couldn’t be more grateful for their partnership.”