B a c k   T o   T h o u g h t s
In recent years, social responsibility has become increasingly important to business organizations across the globe. Why? It empowers employees to use the corporate resources available to them to set an example and to do good for others.

On Thursday, November 21st, BOWEN, joined forces with Ellevate Network’s Long Island Chapter and Family Residences & Essential Enterprise, (FREE) for an event centered around the value of social responsibility. “Cheers, Chat & Charity,” a charitable networking event for young Long Island women professionals, took place at FREE’s headquarters in Bethpage, NY. Together, these organizations highlighted the importance of giving back to the community. Whether it be product donations, financial contributions, volunteering, or any other creative means, taking a moral stance on improving the community we live in is vital to many individuals and businesses across Long Island, as well as the globe.

A Networking Event with a Charitable Twist


The event, decorate in fall fashion, featured autumn leaves, apple pie punch, and a gratitude tree to inspire attendees to take part in the spirit of thankfulness and charitable giving. The relationships fostered with FREE and Ellevate, brought together like-minded advocates that understand how imperative it is to bring social awareness to the community. YoPro members were educated on the different ways to get involved with FREE, and how they can champion social responsibility in the workplace. FREE representatives escorted our YoPro attendees through the facilities for an intimate, behind the scenes look a the programs that provide support to residents with special needs, developmental disabilities, and mental health illnesses. In addition, Yo Pro attendees were delighted with a private performance by the FREE Players Ensemble. It was here, that guests were able to witness the true positive impact of social responsibility in the community.

This event not only brought YoPros together but also, businesses as well. Several local businesses in the Long Island community generously contributed to the event’s raffle baskets, used to raise money for FREE’s mission. We are very thankful to the following businesses for coming together to make a difference in our community: Mary Kay, The Refuge, The Cuban, Revolution Yoga, EPIC Escape Rooms LI, Scrubz Body, Pasticceria Moscato, and Piccolo Gourment.

A Partnership That Goes Beyond Web Design

FREE and BOWEN have grown significantly together over the years. Having flourished into a full-fledged agency partnership, we’ve been able to help FREE advance forward with many impacting initiatives and fulfill our social responsibility. Currently, President of BOWEN, Natalie Bowen, proudly sits as an advisor on the leadership and advisory committee at FREE and together, BOWEN and FREE work to bring awareness and support to over 4000 individuals.

Working with a non-profit certainly has it’s business benefits. Organizations that take a proactive stance in making a conscious effort to give back to their communities can see benefits including:
  • Improved employee morale
  • Higher productivity
  • Positive business reputation
  • Greater ability to attract talent and retain staff
  • Organizational growth

Spreading Social Responsibility

The connections we make throughout our professional careers can shape the way we look at our society and the community around us. “I hope to spark awareness for Long Island businesses and inspire their youngest members to be socially responsible because not only is it great for strengthening a business’ brand image, but by bringing the community together, we can achieve more for those in need,” said Natalie Bowen.

It only takes one person to start a chain reaction to do good for others. With this event, we hope to encourage more Long Island businesses and individuals to be involved in their communities because “together we can.”

View Event Photos Here

To help us make a difference for thousands of individuals in our community, you can make a donation or get involved with Family Residences & Essential Enterprises, Inc. (FREE).

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