Austin Chamber Recognizes Most Philanthropic Businesses

AUSTIN, TEXAS — The tactics of corporate responsibility are a barometer of a company's commitment to benefit the community it serves. That key dynamic among local concerns was celebrated on Friday as the Austin Chamber of Commerce recognized the city's most philanthropic businesses.

During its Austin Gives Generous Business Awards function, the Austin Gives program lauded businesses that have pledged 1 percent of pre-tax earnings—such as volunteer time, products, services and financial support—toward community impact efforts. The awards ceremony took place at the Hilton Austin.

“Austin is incredibly fortunate to have an outstanding business culture," said Austin Chamber Senior Director of Engagement Beth Krueger. "Austin Gives looks to honor all of the job creators and employers that make giving back to the community a part of their business model."

Each year, the chamber gives special recognition to those businesses that are giving back in meaningful and impactful ways, Krueger explained To that end, chamber officials scour through multiple deserving nominees to convey the most notable stories of corporations making a difference by giving to the community.

Nominees were separated into four categories based on company size:

Charitable Champions (fewer than 26 employees): Antonelli's Cheese Shop.

Big Heart (27-100 employees): The Beck Group.

Bold Giver (101-400 employees): Austin American-Statesman.

Community Leaders (401+ employees): Texas Mutual Insurance Company.

HEB Central Texas Region Senior Vice President and General Manager Jeff Thomas also received the Bobby Jenkins Philanthropic Leadership Award. This award is given to a business leader who exemplifies a commitment to philanthropy and promotes the welfare and well being of others.

Learn more about the Austin Gives program at Austin Gives.