Most charities need the support of the community in order to be successful. Luckily, the Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firemen’s Fund has fantastic supporters, including the Wells Fargo Philanthropy Group, the Jalapeno Sponsor for the 2013 El Coyote Café’s Hot & Spicy Firefighters Salsa Competition.
“We couldn’t have done it without Wells Fargo Philanthropy Group,” said Toni Molle, President of the team at Social Strategies, one of the organizers of the event. “It can be difficult finding sponsors for fundraising events, even for a charity with a long a history. We’re grateful to Wells Fargo Philanthropy Group for stepping up where there was a need and getting involved in our fundraising efforts. Their participation was instrumental.”
With so many worthy charities and non-profits out there seeking assistance from both the general public and businesses, competition for volunteer hours and funding can be a real challenge. Many Widows & Orphans sponsors embrace the charity because they have a personal connection to firefighters – they may have firefighters in their family or have received assistance from the LAFD during an emergency. Others want to do their part in supporting their community, and know that firefighters play an essential role in the safety of that community. Still others are looking to support the families of those heroes who have been injured or killed in the line of duty and to make sure the children left behind have the education and the opportunities they need to thrive.
“We cherish all our donors long-time and new,” said Marlene Casillas, Development & Marketing Director for the charity. “The Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firemen’s Fund would not be able to do such great work without the financial contributions of donors such as the Wells Fargo Philanthropy Group.”
Wells Fargo Philanthropic Services is so committed to charitable services; it has a dedicated staff of experienced professionals to meet the highly specialized needs of the nonprofit community. For more information, visit Wells Fargo online.
By Jody Houser