Edward Jones Campaign Raises $673,382 for the Arts in St. Louis through Arts and Education Council Workplace Giving Campaign

The Arts and Education Council is delighted to announce the associates and principals of Edward Jones have raised  $673,382 through its 2012 Workplace Giving Campaign, PARTICIPATE – Keep Art Happening, to support arts and arts education organizations throughout the 16-county, bi-state St. Louis area. The campaign
at Edward Jones is the largest and most successful Workplace Giving Campaign in A&E’s history with 2,857 of the firm’s associates and partners, representing 73% of its workforce, contributing to this year’s effort.

 

Edward Jones has consistently conducted A&E’s largest Workplace Giving Campaign for many years. A long-time supporter of the St. Louis arts community, Edward Jones has donated more than $5.5 million to the Arts and Education Council since 1978 with more than $3.3 million coming from its workplace giving efforts.  Edward Jones substantially increased its 2012 giving by donating $30,382 more than was raised in 2011. An additional campaign among the firm’s St. Louis-area branch offices will be held in the fall of 2012.

 

Edward Jones has a long history of support for the Arts and Education Council, beginning with former Managing Partner John Bachmann, who chaired A&E’s board from 1994 through 1996.  Edward Jones Principals Jim Krekeler and Eric Koestner are both members of the Arts and Education Council’s board of directors. Edward Jones Principal Bob Ciapciak and Krekeler are former A&E board chairs.

 

This year’s campaign management team included Principal Chair Dave Mayo and Associates Co-chairs Brian Mathus and Deanna Taylor. Their dedication and creative thinking pushed this year’s results far ahead of previous years. Mayo, Mathus and Taylor led a team of 35 Edward Jones associates who coordinated the campaign that was launched on May 11 with events on Edward Jones’ campuses. Edward Jones hosted two leadership-giving receptions prior to the campaign with entertainment provided by members of the Jazz St. Louis Jazz All-Stars, a group of talented high school musicians that receives funding from A&E.

“Edward Jones associates and principals recognize that strength in arts and arts education enhances a region’s economic environment and greatly enriches lives,” said Cynthia A. Prost, president of the Arts and Education Council. “Our friends at Edward Jones demonstrate incredible generosity and enthusiasm for the Arts and Education Council’s annual campaign. Their efforts ultimately strengthen the neighborhoods and communities where they conduct business.  By supporting the St. Louis arts community, Edwards Jones helps ensure the area’s legacy of artistic excellence and provides children and adults with opportunities to explore and experience exceptional art and culture throughout the region.”