Georgia-Pacific's Generosity Shines Bright in Putnam County

As the holiday season draws near, I find myself overwhelmed with gratitude for the immense impact that Georgia-Pacific LLC and its Palaka mill have on the residents of Putnam County, Fla. It goes beyond being just an employer; it serves as a beacon of hope and support for numerous organizations and initiatives that uplift and empower our community.

Georgia-Pacific utilizes its Four E focus areas (Education, Enrichment of Community, Entrepreneurship, and Environment) as guiding principles for giving back in ways that strengthen our communities.

Let's take a moment to acknowledge the remarkable work being done by these organizations and recognize how Georgia-Pacific's financial and in-kind support is truly making a difference:?

- The Lee Conlee House provides emergency shelter to adults and families facing domestic abuse and violence. Their services extend beyond Palatka, reaching neighboring communities and offering a safe haven for those in need. Georgia-Pacific's support of the Lee Conlee House showcases its commitment to helping the most vulnerable members of our community.

- Putnam Habitat for Humanity believes that everyone deserves access to clean, safe and affordable housing. By partnering with this organization, Georgia-Pacific helps turn the dream of homeownership into a reality for families in our community, particularly honorably discharged U.S. military veterans in its Veterans Village. The organization also assists low-income homeowners with small home repairs and provides temporary handicap ramps for disabled patients in hospice care.

- The African American Cultural Arts Council is dedicated to preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of African Americans. They strive to improve our community through educational awareness, social activities and civic projects. Georgia-Pacific's support of this organization demonstrates its commitment to diversity, inclusivity and the preservation of history.?

- United Way of St. Johns County engages and inspires communities to create a shared vision for the future. They focus on education and financial health and wellness for all residents of St. Johns and Putnam counties. Promoting preventive healthcare, community impact grants, school supplies, free tax prep, and books for children ensures that everyone has access to essential resources.

- The Education Foundation of Putnam County is dedicated to filling the gaps in education. They identify programs and initiatives that are often overlooked or underfunded and provide the necessary funding to make them a reality. From literacy programs to vocational and technical training, they ensure every student has the resources to succeed. They also offer classroom grants and scholarships to deserving students and teachers, furthering the goals of the Putnam County School District.

- The Putnam County Chamber of Commerce plays a crucial role in the responsible development of business enterprises. Promoting a better quality of life and fostering excellence in leadership creates an environment that encourages growth and prosperity for all. Georgia-Pacific's support of the chamber helps further its mission and strengthen our local economy.

- The Putnam County Fair Authority educates residents about agriculture and its importance. The fair brings together thousands of people each year, fostering a sense of unity and celebration. Through their involvement in 4-H clubs and other fair-related activities, young people develop essential life skills and learn the value of community service and volunteerism.

- The City of Palatka Fire Department provides effective and efficient fire prevention, fire suppression, disaster management, emergency medical care, and other essential services. Georgia-Pacific annually donates funds to help the department purchase rescue equipment, including heat-sensing devices that aid firefighters at the scene of emergencies.

- The Bartram Trail Society of Florida is committed to historical and environmental education, recreation and preservation. They promote public-access recreational trails and organize events commemorating William Bartram's visit to Florida. Georgia-Pacific's support of this organization aligns perfectly with its dedication to sustainability and environmental stewardship.

- The Putnam County School District is a cornerstone of our community, and Georgia-Pacific recognizes the importance of supporting its endeavors. From hosting all-county sports banquets to providing funding for a robotics team to participate in regional competitions, Georgia-Pacific's contributions enhance the educational experience for countless students. Their annual Teacher and School-Related Employee of the Year Program acknowledges and celebrates the exceptional educators who shape the minds of our future leaders.

- The Boy Scouts of America North Florida Council enriches the scouting program for thousands of youth and adult members in our community. Through scouting, young people develop essential life skills and learn the importance of leadership and community service. Georgia-Pacific's support of the Boy Scouts enables key volunteer leadership and provides resources for their programs and camp facilities.

- Keep Putnam Beautiful is a county-wide program that addresses solid waste and littering issues. By working closely with stakeholders in Putnam County, Georgia-Pacific helps further efforts to reduce waste, promote recycling, and create a cleaner, more beautiful environment for all.

- Georgia-Pacific not only offers financial support but also extends its generosity by providing paper products to numerous organizations such as the South Putnam Christian Service Center, Lee Conlee House, ARC of Putnam County, Rodeheaver Boys' Ranch, and Bread of Life. Through our in-kind donations, these organizations can now allocate their budgets towards delivering vital services, knowing that their paper product needs are taken care of.

Our employees also contribute individually:

- In a remarkable partnership with LifeSouth Community Blood Centers, Georgia-Pacific's Palatka mill went above and beyond by hosting an impressive total of 24 blood and platelet drives in 2023. These donations played a crucial role in providing much-needed support to accident and burn victims, heart surgery and organ transplant patients, as well as individuals bravely fighting against cancer. By carefully separating whole blood donations into essential components, each contribution has the potential to save up to three lives. Thanks to the unwavering dedication of Palatka mill employees, an astounding 1,696 individuals in the community were given a new lease on life.

- Putnam County School District Angel Tree Program, where mill employees provide gifts and clothing to needy children throughout the county because every child deserves to experience the joy of Christmas morning.

Now, more than ever, our commitment to strengthening the communities we serve remains steadfast. We are committed to working closely with local leaders and organizations to address the pressing challenges we face. Our aim is to promote equality and economic opportunities, foster progress and prosperity, enhance job skills, strengthen emergency response capabilities, and create a sense of unity and inclusivity. By doing so, we are paving the way for individuals to thrive not only in the present but also in the future.

Indeed, Georgia-Pacific's generosity shines bright in Putnam County!