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From educational support and environmental stewardship to health initiatives and disaster relief, this year has showcased a variety of ways Pepper prioritizes community involvement and upholds our commitment to making an impact in the communities where we live and work. Our Ohio team has spent 2024 dedicated to causes close to our hearts, acting in partnership with local organizations and making a positive difference across our region.
With a variety of interests across a team of over 200, our employees led campaigns to benefit non-profits with missions that encompass the spirit of their offices.
The Pepper Cincinnati team gathered early on a Saturday morning to take part in the Mini-Heart 5K, walking through the heart of downtown Cincinnati in support of a great cause.
Championing Health and Wellness
In support of the American Heart Association’s mission to fight heart disease, our Ohio team rallied together on Wear Red Day and in Cincinnati participated in the Mini Heart 5K and CycleNation.
In Columbus, the team joined the PanCan PurpleStride for pancreatic cancer research and support for affected families. We also participated in the Pelotonia bike race, cycling with the determination to fund life-saving cancer research.
PanCan PurpleStride in Columbus! We had employees join our team in walking for Terese Francois.
Paul Francois, President of Pepper Ohio, races in Pelotonia 2024 to support the fight against cancer, reflecting his ongoing dedication to fundraising for cancer research and other health initiatives.
Investing in Education and Our Local Community
As part of our commitment to local impact, our team in Columbus has worked closely with Junior Achievement of Central Ohio to help shape a brighter future for young people.
By participating in the Junior Achievement Inspire Career Fair and hosting a Casino Night Benefit for Junior Achievement we’ve continued to support the unique educational programs that empower students with practical skills for future success.
Our dedication to the Lockland community, where our Cincinnati office is located, is a true testament to Pepper’s investment in our communities.
Through a gift card drive, coat drive, and our participation in the Adopt-a-Class program, we’re ensuring that children in our immediate community have the resources they need, from warm winter clothing and essential school supplies to role models' impact on future careers. Each effort reflects our commitment to helping local children thrive and building a stronger community for years to come.
Environmental Stewardship
With a focus on being good stewards of the spaces we live, work, and play in, Pepper always stays attuned to efforts that keep our natural world protected and beautiful.
Our team took action for environmental conservation, coming together for the Lockland Spring Cleanup and the Mill Creek Cleanup in April, followed by the Little Miami River Cleanup in August.
These events allowed us to invest volunteer hours into keeping our local environment clean, safe, and enjoyable for all. Our commitment to stewardship shone through each of these efforts, reflecting our pride in protecting the natural spaces within our communities.
The Pepper Cincinnati team removed over 40 tires from the Little Miami River during their annual river cleanup. In addition to tires, they collected scrap metal and various debris, working throughout the day to help restore the river and improve the local community.
Making a Difference Together
In July, our team participated in the Dash for Donations, a fundraiser dedicated to raising awareness and support for organ, eye, and tissue donation. This has become an annual event for the Pepper team and is not without a battle in the hot, Central Ohio sunshine.
In support of disaster relief efforts, our team contributed to assist communities impacted by flooding in North Carolina after Hurricane Helene, underscoring our commitment to helping those in urgent need. And with over 170,000 meals provided to the MidOhio Food Collective, we worked to address food insecurity and support our neighbor’s experiencing hardship.
Our Shared Impact
With more than 2,750 volunteer hours logged, our team’s dedication to our community reflects a culture rooted in stewardship, teamwork and collaboration.
Each event, whether local cleanups or larger health initiatives, reinforces Pepper Ohio’s commitment to helping transform and uplift our communities. As we reflect on the positive impact of 2024, we look forward to continuing our tradition of giving back in 2025 and beyond. Together, we are building a legacy — fostering a brighter future for the communities we serve.
