Justin Donates to Heart of MN Animal Shelter
Justin McGuire is a Programmer at Vivid Image, and he selected Heart of MN Animal Shelter to be the recipient of his $250 donation in June. The Heart of Minnesota Animal Shelter is passionately devoted to the care of animals in need, by providing rescue, shelter, adoption, and veterinary services in central Minnesota. Lyla and Izzy (pictured to the right) were adopted from The Heart of Minnesota Animal Shelter in 2023, completing the heart of the McGuire family. Justin chose to donate to the HMAS because it does so much more than just care for animals. HMAS and its fosters change the world for these animals and their adoptive families, one rescue at a time. “Pets are humanizing. They remind us we have an obligation and responsibility to preserve and nurture and care for all life.” ~ James Cromwell
Lindsey Donates to BelieveT Canine Service Partners
Lindsey Schwecke is an Account Director at Vivid Image, and she selected the BelieveT Canine Service Partners program to be the recipient of her $250 donation in June. The vision of the BelieveT Canine Service Partners program is to empower the brave veterans who served and sacrificed for our country, with the goal of helping them return to civilian life with dignity and independence. Lindsey said “I chose to donate to BelieveT Canine Service Partners because their mission resonates deeply with me and reflects my commitment to supporting those who have served our country. BelieveT provides highly-trained service dogs to disabled veterans at no cost, addressing the significant physical and emotional challenges many face after their service. These dogs offer companionship, enhance independence, and improve veterans’ quality of life. The dedication and expertise BelieveT demonstrates ensure each veteran receives a partner suited to their needs. Their transformative impact on veterans’ lives is truly inspiring, making BelieveT an organization I am proud to support.“
Ciera Donates to Grassroots Efforts to Assist Homeless
Ciera Conrad is a Marketing Strategist at Vivid Image, and she selected Operation Hope to be the recipient of her $250 volunteer donation. Operation Hope is a grassroots effort started by Jeff Schmidt of Hutchinson to serve people experiencing homelessness. Ciera is connected to Operation Hope in a couple of ways. Vivid Image, along with American Family Insurance-Bo Young (also located in our building) is a drop off location for donated supplies. Ciera’s church and father-in-law, Dave have been helping Jeff distribute clothing, blankets, food and supplies for years. Ciera says, “I’ve heard so many positive stories about Operation Hope over the years, and the difference their efforts and the donations make in the lives of those experiencing homelessness from Hutchinson to the Twin Cities. I chose Operation Hope because it feels right to support a cause that’s making a tangible impact, and I know my contribution will help someone, maybe even many, in a meaningful way.” Pictured at the right is a blanket made and donated by Megan’s Place donated to Operation Hope being given to someone in need.
Shannon Donates to Efforts to Reach Young People in Community, Support & Hope
Shannon Streich is a Graphic Designer at Vivid Image, and she selected Crow River Youth for Christ to be the recipient of her $250 volunteer donation. Youth for Christ believes that meaningful relationships are where God can work to uncover His story of Hope in the life of a young person. Shannon has volunteered with the local senior high campus life program this past school year and said “I chose to donate to Youth for Christ because I have seen firsthand what an impact this organization can make on youth. Because many people can feel over-looked and like they don’t have anyone in their corner, this program provides youth with a place of community, support and hope. It is amazing to watch the positivity and growth that can come to life in the overlap of God’s story, our story and a young person’s story; which is the focus of Youth for Christ.”
Charitable giving is determined by our staff!
Every month, one or two Vivid Image team members select a non-profit that means a lot to them. $250 is granted to the non-profit of their choice. Then, throughout the year, if staff choose to volunteer at least 25 hours of time, they select another non-profit to receive $250, and the staff member also receives $250 in recognition of their contribution to the community.
By the end of every year, we are able to make a difference in the lives of others by donating at least $5,000, and likely upwards of over $11,000!
