As students prepared to return to classrooms, Donaldson partnered with communities across the region to support multiple Back-to-School Bookbag Giveaway events. These initiatives brought together employees, leadership, and community partners to provide children with the supplies and encouragement they need for a successful start to the school year. One of the largest events was held at the Brookland Manor Community Center in Washington, DC
The afternoon event ensured children and families started the academic year equipped with fully stocked bookbags and essential school supplies. Demonstrating Donaldson’s ongoing commitment to community service, employees volunteered their time to assemble and distribute backpacks. Among the volunteers were President Scott Altman and CEO Carl Einsel who worked alongside leadership and staff members alike to prepare supplies for students.
Donaldson’s participation reflects the company’s culture of service and its dedication to strengthening neighborhoods through education and partnership. By collaborating with organizations including the Community Services Foundation, Learn24, UPO, Maketto, and others, the initiative delivered meaningful support to
families at the start of the school year.
“When we invest in children’s education, we invest in the future of our society,” said Donaldson President Scott Altman. “It was rewarding to see the impact of this effort and the difference it makes for families in our communities.”
Donaldson also extended its support to another back-to-school initiative at Country Place Apartments, a community acquired by the company last year. This event was led by the Country Place property management team in collaboration with non-profit partner AHC (Affordable Housing Communities). Families received bookbags and supplies in an event designed to build connections and support within the community. Many families left smiling and it was a fun time for all.
“At Country Place, we were proud to stand alongside our partners at AHC and the property management team to provide students with the tools they need for a strong school year,” said Carl Einstein, CEO of Donaldson. “Events like this reflect Donaldson’s mission to not only manage communities, but to strengthen them by investing in the families who call them home.”
Donaldson hosted a third event led by Vera VanKeuren, Senior Executive Assistant, who organized a supply drive through employee donations. “I sent out an email asking for donations and Sandy volunteered to go to pick up supplies. We raised about $200 and were able to purchase quite a few supplies. Donaldson also purchased a lot of supplies,” Vera shared. This generosity and collaboration made it possible to expand the reach of the initiative and provide even more resources for families preparing for the school year.
Together, the three back-to-school initiatives at Brookland Manor, Country Place, and Donaldson’s own headquarters demonstrate the company’s holistic approach to service, combining leadership involvement, employee generosity, and community partnership. Donaldson remains committed to fostering stability, opportunity, and encouragement for families across the region and will continue to champion initiatives that make a lasting impact.
Read more about Donaldson Cares Partners HERE.
