Sherwin-Williams has a history of community service spanning nearly half a century

Christopher Connor
Christopher Connor, chairman and CEO, The Sherwin-Williams Co.

Since 1964, The Sherwin-Williams Co. has supported organization and programs that improve the quality of life for its employees and the communities in which they live. In 2007, the company’s foundation launched the Sherwin-Williams Grant, a $50,000 cash award given annually to a charity committed to either children’s health or educational programs that lead to economic independence.
The first recipient of the grant in May 2008 was the Cleveland Housing Network — an organization that develops affordable housing for low- and moderate-income families in the Greater Cleveland area. In addition to the grant dollars awarded, Sherwin-Williams, led by Chairman and CEO Christopher M. Connor, allowed employees to assist with one of the housing network’s home rehabilitation projects.
This year, Sherwin-Williams awarded the grant to Orlando’s Intervention Services Inc., an organization committed to helping foster children become independent, productive citizens. The program helps prevent homelessness and unemployment for youth who have reached their 18th birthday and have thus aged out of the foster care system.
Sherwin-Williams employees volunteer their time in many other ways. In May, 300 Sherwin-Williams employees donated their time and paint products to help transform a senior guest house and charter school on the campus of Fairhill Partners in Cleveland. Fairhill Partners is home to more than 30 nonprofit organizations whose mission is to connect people with opportunities for lifelong learning and successful aging.
In addition, the Sherwin-Williams Women’s Club assists national organizations during times of crisis. The club has organized dozens of fundraising events, from toy drives to raffles to sales of food, books, household items and used office furniture. Additionally, for the past seven years, the club has donated boxes of toys during the holiday season for children receiving services at Berea Children’s Home and Family Services. The club originated in 1912 with 25 members and has grown to over 300 members strong.
HOW TO REACH: The Sherwin-Williams Co., (216) 566-2000 or www.sherwin-williams.com