William Morris//October 16, 2018//
A bank, an advertising company and a car dealership group have one thing in common, according to the Minneapolis Regional Chamber of Commerce: commitment to philanthropy.
The chamber’s Keystone program is honoring three businesses at its 42nd annual award luncheon in December. Keystone companies must donate at least 2 percent of pretax earnings to charitable organizations, according to a chamber press release.
“What is good for the community in turn benefits business,” chamber President and CEO Jonathan Weinhagen said in a statement. “When the program began, leaders made this realization and began investing back in the communities that helped them to get started. Today, Minnesotan businesses set a national standard when it comes to corporate giving.”
In the small-business category, Keystone is recognizing St. Louis Park-based marketing and communications company Nemer Fieger, which has worked with clients ranging from Chanhassen Dinner Theatres to Slumberland Furniture. According to the chamber, the company’s philanthropic efforts include donating items and services to more than 50 organizations for fundraising auctions, and providing discount rates for nonprofit clients.
The midsize business honoree is St. Michael-based Highland Bank. The chamber notes Highland employees are involved in fundraising and volunteering for local charities through its Community Involvement Program as well as corporate giving.
Edina-based Walser Automotive Group is the 2018 large-business honoree. Walser supports education, health care research and other causes through the Walser Foundation, and runs a high school scholarship program, according to the chamber.
The companies will be recognized at a luncheon Dec. 13 at the Hyatt Regency Minneapolis.
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