For our Volunteer Month, BAMKO embraced a different kind of work.
We believe in the power of connection, and what better way to connect than by giving back? Even with a primarily remote and global team, we found creative ways to come together to make a difference.
To ignite our competitive spirit (and maximize our impact!), we launched a company-wide volunteer challenge for the month of October. Using an online platform, we tracked volunteer hours, donations, and all sorts of do-gooding activities, awarding points for every act of kindness.
Four regional teams emerged, ready to turn compassion into a friendly contest with some serious prizes on the line! BAMKO donated a total of $10k in the form of prizes, split among the winning teams to be donated to a charity of their choice. First place would score a $4,000 donation, $3,000 for second place, $2,000 for third, and $1,000 for fourth. The initiative was an outstanding success that fostered camaraderie, ignited our team spirit, and made a huge impact.
From donations and recycling initiatives to attending and even hosting charitable events, BAMKO’s global reach translated into real, positive change around the world.
The Competition: We’re all winners!
The results are in! The BAMKO Volunteer Challenge sparked incredible acts of service across our company. Let’s celebrate the amazing achievements of our four regional teams.
1st place: The Guardians of Good
Our East Coast team, “The Guardians of Good,” claimed victory! BAMKO’s Senior Project manager, Danielle Olszewski Rios led the charge, posing a challenge to her team to attend at least two on-site events, donate to four donation drives, donate to six 501(c) organizations, lend support to six people in need, and recycle five bags of materials. Her team rallied to the call, making donations and committing acts of kindness across the East Coast. With their $4,000 in winnings, they made 50/50 donations to both Melanoma Know More and Samaritan’s Purse.
2nd place: The Good Vibe Tribe
Despite facing the challenges of recent hurricanes, the Southeast’s “Good Vibe Tribe” showed incredible resilience, securing a strong second-place finish! Group leader and Director of Corporate Partnerships Katie Barber recommended her team do their part by committing random acts of kindness to support people within their region in light of the recent hurricanes. This team really stepped up, supporting their neighbors, making donations, and contributing to the rebuilding of their communities. With their $3,000 prize, they also split their donations between two organizations, Moffitt Cancer Center, and The Knoble.
3rd place: The Helping Hive
Taking the bronze medal, the West Coast’s “Helping Hive” buzzed with activity! Inspired by their team leader, HR Manager Jazmin Smith, they tackled beach cleanups, boosted recycling efforts, and made generous donations from cash to clothes and more. And to top it off, they donated their $2,000 winnings to No Kid Hungry, ensuring that children in need have access to nutritious meals.
4th place: The Community Crusaders
Though last on the leaderboard, the Midwest’s “Community Crusaders” demonstrated a powerful commitment to their community. Led by sales rep Jaime Gaston, this team made donations, committed random acts of kindness, and even held a domestic violence awareness event to show their support. The group donated their $1,000 winnings to the Humane Society of the US.
Our Global Impact
BAMKO’s global teams got into the spirit of giving, too. In India, our team organized a blood drive that saw an overwhelming response from the local community. Donors lined up, eager to contribute to a cause that saves countless lives. This initiative wasn’t just about collecting blood; it was about fostering a sense of unity and demonstrating the power of collective action.
Meanwhile, on the other side of the world, our China team dedicated a heartwarming day to volunteering at a school for children with special needs. They engaged with the children through games, art projects, and shared laughter, creating a truly inclusive and joyful atmosphere. The experience was a powerful reminder that compassion and kindness can transcend cultural differences and create meaningful connections.
Our team in Brazil embraced the spirit of giving too, by bringing joy to children in need. In celebration of Children’s Day, they organized a heartwarming initiative to donate toys and candy, spreading smiles and creating lasting memories for those who deserve it most.
These initiatives showcase BAMKO and our team members’ sincere commitment to making a positive impact around the world. They prove that even a global company can come together to make a real difference in the lives of others.
Beyond Volunteer Month
We’re incredibly proud of the passion and dedication our team members displayed throughout this challenge. But the true reward lies in the lives we touched, the communities we strengthened, and the positive change we ignited around the world.
Inspired by our team’s dedication? Join the movement and help us give back!
Each quarter, 1% of sales from our BAMKO Collection are donated to a charitable organization with a wide-reaching impact. By choosing products from this collection, you’re not just getting high-quality merchandise; you’re directly contributing to a better world.