How RockBridge’s commitment to generosity helps its community thrive

Pillar Award Finalist 
James T. Merkel
president and CEO
RockBridge
(614) 246-2400 | www.rockbridgecapital.com
RockBridge has a long history of commitment to serving its community and helping those in need. The hotel investment firm’s philosophy is that the strength and success of the community in which its employees live and work is highly dependent on the support of local businesses. As such, RockBridge prides itself on the level of involvement in and commitment to a variety of charitable causes in Central Ohio.
Through volunteer activities, financial and in-kind contributions, and board involvement, RockBridge and its employees are dedicated to helping ensure that the Central Ohio community is a place of continued prosperity and growth.
Headed by CEO James T. Merkel, RockBridge and its employees have been recognized for many contributions to the community, including Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Ohio’s 2010 Milton Lewin Legacy Award, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Ohio Corporate Partner of the Year Award, 2006, Salesian Boys & Girls Club Board Member of the Year, Ken Krebs 2005-2006, Boys & Girls Club of America Jeremiah Milbank Society, Business First Columbus Corporate Caring Award, 2004, and Business First Columbus finalist for the Corporate Caring Award, 2005 and 2006.
A good example of RockBridge’s community service is the involvement of the company and its employees in Pelotonia and the fight against cancer. In 2011, RockBridge recruited 14 riders who raised a total of $32,000 to support this cause. For 2012, with donations still coming in, RockBridge’s 68 riders have raised $130,000, making RockBridge, which has fewer than 50 employees, one of the organization’s top 12 fundraisers.