Let’s face it, in today’s world any charitable contribution by a celebrity or large business, will always at least draw a raised eyebrow as to whether or not it is simply a publicity stunt. It also seems that more and more bicycle companies are claiming to do their part to make the world a better place, but how many of those companies are actually putting their money where their mouth is?
A little more than a week ago, Trek quietly made a very large donation to the American Red Cross Haitian Relief Fund. The Donation was originally reported to be an initial fifty thousand dollars with a matching grant to whatever Trek employees personally donated. This was released by a news article to Trek dealers on January 25th along with a letter from Trek President John Burke. However, on February 12th, the Trek Travel Twitter feed stated that Trek would be donating one hundred thousand dollars that day. In my humble opinion, what makes this newsworthy is the lack of fanfare and publicity that accompanied such a gracious donation during an especially turbulent financial time, clearly Trek is doing this for all the right reasons. Honestly, it really shouldn’t come as a surprise given Trek’s history of both advocacy and supporting the world in need.
Hit more to read the letter from John Burke..
Fellow Trek Employees,
A week ago a massive earth quake struck the island of Haiti killing over 200,000 people and causing massive damage leaving the island in ruins. There are over 1.5 million people who are homeless and the situation is desperate. Thousands more are expected to die from injuries, lack of water, and disease. Haiti was the poorest country in the Western hemisphere before the Quake struck, it is an absolute disaster today.
It has been part of the culture of Trek to help those in need. We answered the call for help on 9/11, the Tsunami, and Katrina. We answer the call just about every day in many different ways most of which you never hear about. We just do the right thing. Today, I am asking for your help to make a difference for the people of Haiti. Trek will be donating $50,000 and will match employee’s contributions.
Make a donation if you can. I don’t care if you give $5 or $500, just give. These people need our help, and we can make a difference.
John Burke
