National Make a Difference day Day was created in 1992 and is celebrated annually on the fourth Saturday of October, which is October 22 this year. Here at AMS we put making a positive difference in the world way up there in all of our decisions. AMS is a B Corporation and B Corps exist to do just that – Make a Difference and be a Benefit to the world!
Just a little history: The B Corporation Movement was started by three individuals, Jay Coen Gilbert, Bart Houlahan, and Andrew Cassoy. The first generation of B Corporations was certified in 2007, and the number of firms earning certification has grown exponentially ever since. There are currently 5,916 Certified B Corporations in 86 countries and 158 industries.
B Corporations make a commitment to care for their employees and create a diverse, inclusive and equitable workforce. The B Corp also is committed to serve their local communities, and protect the environment in their business decisions. The B Corp does not put profit above all, but instead considers employees, community, environment and clients as stakeholders.
AMS is naturally going to celebrate Make a Difference Day as making a difference is foundational. But Make a Difference Day is not just about the companies that make a difference, it is about the individuals who give their time and energy to serve the community.
Here at AMS the employees are shining stars as well, volunteering in their local communities. Employees at AMS have created a Volunteer Committee made up of individuals in both the West and East Coast operations. In consideration of Make a Difference Day, Cassandra C. has agreed to be interviewed about what it’s like to be an employee in a B Corporation.
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Thank you for the interview, Cassandra. First question… What does it mean to you, to be on the Volunteer Committee for a B Corp?
Being on the volunteer board for a B Corp has been very meaningful to me. Before I joined AMS I was very lucky and always thankful to have been blessed by AMS during Thanksgiving and Christmas as a kid. I grew up in a very low-income household, as a kid and now as an adult I know AMS is a special place to be not only for us but for our communities.
As I always say AMS has members with such big hearts, I have met the most kind, caring and selfless people here. I decided to join the volunteer board because I knew I would love to be part of a team that truly does make a difference for us here. Coming from this background/experience, I would always spend time volunteering as a kid, and I know the power of volunteer work. I love to give back and this had been something I gained from mentors who encouraged me to volunteer in my community, so I always had a place in my heart to want to volunteer and give back. These mentors inspired me to do good for others and it always makes me happy knowing I am doing exactly that.
If I can be part of making a positive impact/difference count me in! Being on this board knowing it’s going to help others is very important to me. If you are someone who likes to participate and help others, I would recommend reaching out to any board member if you are interested to join!
What a beautiful message! Could you give us a quote about your volunteering experience at AMS?
The upcoming quote can wrap up how I contributed to the team and the mindset I have. It’s a quote from Kobe Bryant, “The most important thing is to try to inspire people so they can be great in whatever they want to do.” Being part of the Board, I know for me I have had many people inspire and motivate me, I hope I can do the same for others.
Thank You Cassandra and All!! Happy Make a Difference Day!