Boston Business Journal Names AIS Among the Most Charitable Companies in Massachusetts
AIS earns a spot for the fourth consecutive year sharing the honor with just 95 other companies whose charitable contributions exceed $100,000.
The Boston Business Journal has named AIS an honoree in its annual 2021 Corporate Citizenship Awards, a recognition of the region’s top corporate charitable contributors.
The Business Journal annually publishes this list to showcase companies that promote and prioritize giving back to their communities – a feat that is even more important during unusually trying times, such as those we collectively experienced throughout 2021.
“The past couple of years have presented companies and communities with many challenges, and the needs have continued to grow. It is with honor that we present our list of the Top Charitable Contributors in Massachusetts – companies who gave $100,000 or more to Mass.-based charities in 2021. Collectively, they gave $322 million in cash contributions – a true example of the business community coming together to help those in need. We are proud to celebrate these organizations who give both money and time to make Boston a stronger and better place for all,” said Boston Business Journal Market President and Publisher Carolyn Jones.
This year 95 companies have qualified for the distinction with this year’s honorees including companies from industries such as financial and professional services, manufacturing, healthcare, technology, retail, and professional sports.
AIS, whose contributions included an impressive list of nearly two dozen charitable organizations (see list below) will be honored at the BBJ’s 17th Annual Corporate Citizenship Awards on Thursday, September 8 at the Revere Hotel Boston Common from 5:30 – 8:30 pm. The evening will include networking and recognition of the charitable contributors.
Bruce Platzman, co-founder and vice chair of AIS – along with Arthur Maxwell, co-founder and chairman of AIS – have been passionate and intentional about giving back to the community from the very beginning. “We recognize how fortunate we have been over the years to be in a position to give back to the community and grateful for the opportunity to assist those in need,” stated Platzman. “In fact, philanthropy is now a primary focus for me. Over the years, I have witnessed the incredible difference that corporate and personal giving can make and that motivates me to engage even more.”
In addition to organizations with a national presence such as United Way and Make-A-Wish, AIS is pleased to support local charities like Children’s Trust whose mission is to stop child abuse and Newton Country Day School who prepare girls to be strong leaders in a global society.
While the BBJ list recognizes the company’s contributions in Massachusetts, AIS is also a proud contributor to many other worthy causes nationwide. “Supporting our dealers’ philanthropic efforts is important to AIS. Whenever we can say yes to a request, we make every effort to do just that,” stated Nick Haritos, president and CEO of AIS. “We also ensure paid time off to our employees, enabling them to donate their time volunteering at charitable organizations.”
Please visit the AIS Gives Back webpage for more information about the company’s charitable giving.
AIS’ diverse list of 2021 charitable organizations to whom the company has given include:
Aging Services of North Central Massachusetts
ASPiRE! Program (Seven Hills Foundation)
Community Health Connections Shelter
David O’Connell Health Education Building
Make-A-Wish, Massachusetts and Rhode Island
Newton Country Day School of the Sacred Heart
United Way of North Central Massachusetts
ABOUT AIS
AIS, headquartered in Leominster, Massachusetts, is a leading North American manufacturer of commercial office furniture and boasts one of the most impressive stories of growth and success in the furniture industry. Founded in 1989, the company whose sales exceed $220 million annually is known for offering market-relevant, feature-rich product lines that entice designers and support the diverse needs of end-users while offering exceptional value. AIS is an innovator that leads the industry in sustainable lean manufacturing, lead-time performance and manufacturing flexibility. AIS’s BIFMA-compliant products meet or exceed industry standards for safety and durability. Products also are SCS Indoor Advantage™ Gold certified.
The company’s Leominster headquarters and manufacturing facility boast a rooftop of more than 10,000 solar panels, returning 50 percent or more of energy used to the power grid. AIS has permanent showrooms at its Leominster headquarters and in Chicago, New York City and Washington, D.C. With these and other locations across the U.S., the company has over 1 million square feet of office, showroom and factory space. AIS’ more than 800 employees represent over 32 countries around the world and make AIS one of the largest and most diverse employers in central Massachusetts. Over the past five years, AIS has created more jobs in the region than any other company. AIS and its employees also lead in giving back to their communities; the Boston Business Journal has recognized AIS with its Corporate Citizenship Award annually since 2019. For more information, visit www.ais-inc.com.