With the Fourth of July, Civiltech is halfway through our 35 Signs of Kindness initiative (#35SignsofKindnessCEI), and our staff has provided over 140 hours in individual volunteer activities since February. As America celebrates Independence Day, Civiltech recognizes recent staff volunteer activities serving our country’s veterans.
Cub Scouts Supporting Veterans
In May, Civiltech’s Jim Tibble, P.E., volunteered alongside his son, Charlie, and Charlie’s cub scout pack to clean up the grounds at VFW Post 2164 in Wheaton. Post 2164 is a robust supporter of scouting, and the local scout packs and troops enjoy giving back to the veterans.
Charlie’s pack spent two days providing yard work around the hall, including weeding and mulching. Jim shared that the kids had lots of questions about the VFW. The activity provided a meaningful way to learn about what it means to be a veteran of foreign war and the service they provided our country.
Walking for Veteran Suicide Prevention
Over Memorial Day weekend, Civiltech’s Jack Neal participated in a 20-mile ruck march to help raise money and awareness for suicide prevention efforts in the military veteran community. Thousands of active military members, veterans, and volunteers marched from Glencoe, following the lake front south to the finish line at North Avenue Beach in Chicago. The 20-mile distance represents the number of veterans lost every day to suicide.
Jack walked with a team of seven that included his dad, Marty Neal, and other friends. The team took about 8 hours to complete the walk with breaks and a lunch stop along the way.
Jack’s team raised over $2500 which was donated to Lake County Responds for Veterans. Despite sore feet, Jack said he had a blast and looks forward to participating again!
Flags Over Lemont
To honor Veterans in Lemont, CIviltech’s Keith Nowakowski volunteers with his son’s scout troop to post 832 flags throughout the village on Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, and Veteran’s Day. Keith and his sons, Truman and Harrison, are responsible for 82 of those flags.
In the predawn hours, Keith and his sons load their flags and head out for their route. Each flag is posted, with respect and a salute, at sunrise and retired at sunset. The flags provide Lemont residents with a patriotic and festive backdrop to the holidays.
Civiltech says, “thank you” to Jim, Jack, and Keith for these meaningful volunteer activities. We are grateful to all of our staff who frequently and selflessly give back to the organizations and communities they care about both as part of this year’s #35SignsOfKindnessCEI, and as part of our overall company culture supported by our Volunteer Time Off Benefit.