By Althea R., data specialist, for the Tradition of Giving blog series
September 29, 1988 was a day that forever changed my life. My mother was struck and killed on her way home from work in a Chicago suburb by a repeat offender drunk driver. While I don’t remember a lot from then, I do know that my family became supporters of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) not long after her death.
More than 30 years later, it is still an organization that I support because there should be no more victims in tragedies that are completely preventable. There is still much to be done to prevent such senseless deaths and injuries.
Beginning in 2016, Hamacher allowed me to start fundraising every September to commemorate my mother and spread awareness about the consequences of drinking and driving. Each year 
there has been an “Eat Like MADD” luncheon at the office — I call it “the smorgasbord to end all smorgasbords” — something for all to enjoy! Much of the food is donated from businesses in the local community and generous coworkers who make their favorite dishes or pick something up at the store. Many of these same coworkers volunteer to help with the event.
Since 2018 marked the 30th anniversary of my mother’s death, additional fundraising was generated. There were raffles and a silent auction — with nearly 80% of the items being donated from coworkers and businesses. It’s always a lot of fun to see the last-minute scramble when the silent auction is close to ending.
In addition, my coworkers could donate $10 each to dress casual on Thursdays during the month. There was also a 50/50 raffle drawing where the winning ticket received 50% of the total pot and the other half is donated to MADD. Not surprisingly, the winner decided to donate their winnings back to MADD. This is the kind of culture we have here which is truly inspiring!
With all the amazing support from HRG and other businesses in 2018, nearly $2,500 was raised for MADD from the events that were held in the office and personal donations. It is so heartwarming to see people donate to causes you are truly passionate about!