Bandit backs Salvation Army initiative
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Bandit Lites team members are provided funds and time to come together to shop for those in need. HR Coordinator Cori Link organises the efforts in Nashville by coordinating the staff, transport and Angel Tree drop off, while Lisa Fodge spearheads the Knoxville staff’s efforts.
“It’s great working for a company where the owner gives the employees the ability to give back,” says Bandit Lites general manager Mark Steinwachs. “You can forget how easy to get wrapped up in our world worrying about the next prep and the next gig until you are off doing something that is solely for helping others. It’s fun to see a bunch of grizzled vets talking about the Barbies they picked out or asking if someone has seen the tea sets in the toy aisle.”
Bandit Lites shop foreman Erich Foreman spent the day transporting four groups out to local businesses to shop for children. Each team member can select a child to sponsor, with Christmas wishes ranging from toys and tablets to jackets and toothbrushes.
“We are all so truly blessed to be able to work in an industry we love so much,” comments Bandit Lites chair and founder, Michael T. Strickland. “Being able to provide for those less fortunate warms our hearts at this time of year and reminds us of just how fortunate we really are. We take all of the team members to the store in vans and allow everyone to pick out the Angel tag from the tree, and then, individually, one on one, find the appropriate gift that their child has requested.
“Somewhere in that brief journey you magically connect with that child and understand that his or her wish will be fulfilled. We shed tears of joy every year and end the afternoon with a warm heart and a renew spirit of giving.”
(Jim Evans)
