Basement Systems in the Community
When it comes to giving back to the community where it really counts, few know how to make an impact like Basement Systems. In their most recent show of philanthropy, they donated four sets of Newberry Award winning books to facilitate a local 6th grade program in Bridgeport. This program, made possible by this funding, allowed 15 students the opportunity to share in 30 hours of extracurricular reading after school.
In the past, Mrs. Bella, the program’s director, was forced to recycle old materials repeatedly to keep the program active. “In our district, budgets are constantly cut and there is hardly any funding for ‘Extra Curriculum’ activities,” she reported. Mrs. Bella said the students jumped for joy when they heard the news of their new books. Perhaps the greatest accomplishment of this program was the enormous degree to which its contribution to the student’s enthusiasm for reading. “It’s one of the most rewarding things about running a successful business,” said Larry Janesky, President of Basement Systems, “To continue making a positive difference- that’s what we’re all about.”
Another effort in the community by Basement Systems is the Junior Achievement Volunteer Program. According to their website, “JA Worldwide is a partnership between the business community, educators and volunteers — all working together to inspire young people to dream big and reach their potential. JA’s hands-on, experiential programs teach the key concepts of work readiness, entrepreneurship and financial literacy to young people all over the world.” Several Basement Systems representatives have been going out to the schools to teach young people in Shelton and most recently, in Seymour. The lessons are all geared towards giving students that might otherwise have limited exposure a brief look at what it takes to be in business. The children really seem to love the information and volunteers leave feeling great about what they have done.
Basement Systems has maintained a strong and lasting relationship with the United Way too. For the last six years, Dan Fitzgerald, director of marketing has contributed his time and energy as the Chair of the Membership Committee on the local United Way’s Corporate Volunteer Council and Basement Systems has joined in with consistent support. This year, Basement Systems is joining together in its third year of participation in their Harvest House project. Last year alone, the local Harvest House gathered together more than 100,000 cans and boxes of food to help feed the needy and hungry in the local area. Basement Systems joined in as a corporate sponsor and its team of dedicated employees donated their time, food, and money to the cause. “It’s rewarding to help that many people in the community,” says Julie Morelli, Basement Systems Executive Assistant, “You never know who you’re helping. It could be your neighbor.”
This year, Basement Systems is also picking up the torch to support the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life in Bethel. Larry Janesky joined in the cause immediately and became one of the event’s first corporate sponsors. Lisa Collon, Basement Systems accountant, has repeatedly been impressed with the shows of support in the business. “I’m always amazed by the generosity of the employees and willingness to participate in fundraisers and charities within the company.” This year, the Bethel Relay for Life has made enormous strides. To date, its 231 participants have raised nearly $10,000 in funds for this year’s Relay.
As the company continues to grow, the philanthropic and positive attitude remains undiminished. The Basement Systems staff has always held on to a special sense of camaraderie- one that extends beyond its walls to include the idea that everyone can succeed together. It came as no surprised in 2006 when they were voted one of the top ten places to work in Connecticut. It’s a company that’s truly focused on doing the right thing and helping everyone to put their best face forward.
by Jacques Jones and Shawn Sandi
Shawn Sandi
Corporate Communications Director,
Basement Systems Inc.
Seymour, CT 06483
203.881.5090 ext 9327
shawn@basementsystems.com
www.basementsystems.com
Basement Systems is a basement waterproofing, crawl space repair, and basement finishing company headquartered in Seymour, CT. The business, which was established 20 years ago, offering services and 25-patented products across the United States, Canada, and the UK.