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PCA's Tomahawk Mill Supports Local Outreach

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During the past 14 years, PCA's Tomahawk, Wis., USA, mill has raised nearly $140,000 to support local outreach efforts. This effort dates back to 1998, when the mill's employees began participating in the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life. After eight years of contributing to the annual event, PCA Tomahawk decided to form its own charity network.

A charity committee of 13 volunteers was formed at the mill to support not just one, but multiple worthy causes within the community. After several hours of initial brainstorming, the group chose to host barbecue cookouts as its fundraising event. The mill provides all of the supplies needed to host the event, including the groceries. The cookouts include picnic fare such as burgers, hot dogs, and chips. For dessert, employees are asked to provide baked goods.

The first year, the cookouts raised just over $2,000. Today, the mill hosts an average of 10 cookouts between April and September and raises nearly $12,000 annually. In addition to the cookouts, items are bought or donated to raffle off to attendees. Proceeds from raffle sales are also donated to local charities.

The committee identifies local organizations in need of support, and donations are made in $500 increments. In 2012 alone, the fundraising efforts have supported the American Cancer Society, Alzheimer's Association, Haven, Kinship, Kippenberg Creek Kids, Camp American Legion, National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Muscular Dystrophy Association, Lincoln County Humane Society, Ronald McDonald House, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, American Red Cross, Tomahawk Food Pantry, The Salvation Army, Special Olympics and Nokomis Food Pantry.

Currently, nearly 9% of the population of Tomahawk is below the poverty line. Through its fundraising events, PCA has supported a "backpack program" at the local food bank, where school backpacks are donated to children and filled with canned goods for the entire family.

The PCA Tomahawk mill has two semi-chemical corrugating medium machines, producing more than 535,000 tons annually. Each machine can produce grades from 23 lb. up to 40 lb.

 

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