June 19, 2009 — Diageo won't begin producing rum from its new Captain Morgan's Distillery until next year, but the company has already started producing something else — goodwill among the many groups, agencies and other players who are trying to make St. Croix a better place to live.
More than 100 people representing more than 50 public service agencies, private non-profits and other groups gathered at a luncheon Friday hosted by the spirits giant to hear about the company's corporate giving program and how they can apply for funds
"You're here because you have one common vision," said Janet Dembeck, the managing partner of MJD Communications, the public relations firm hired by Diageo to handle community relations. "Diageo USVI shares that vision – a vision of a St. Croix that's safe, strong and healthy."
Friday's event was held at the Beach Side Cafe at Sand Castle on the Beach in Frederiksted. A second luncheon for St. Thomas and St. John non-profit organizations is scheduled Monday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Marriott Frenchman’s Reef Beach Resort on St. Thomas.
Diageo's St. Croix distillery is being built through an agreement wth the V.I. Economic Development Authority. Part of the company's agreement calls for it to be a good corporate citizen, getting involved in the life of the community by supporting the many private, non-profit organizations that work to make the community better.
While there is never enough money available to meet all the needs of any community, Dembeck said the company is committed to making its presence felt in supporting the many agencies that need help. Friday she outlined the application process, passing out the various forms that will need to company an application and explaining the information that's needed and the timing of the programs.
Proposals must be submitted at last eight weeks before the event or program needs the funds, she said.
Diageo is committed to the environment, supporting responsible alcohol consumption, and projects that support people and the arts, according to Dembeck.
"Diageo wants to leave more than we've taken from the island," she said.
Just about every aspect of St. Croix volunteer and charitable organizations were represented. The more than 50 organizations represented included the Disability Rights Center, Crimestoppers, the Red Cross, Boys & Girls Club, My Brother's Table, Our Town Frederiksted, the American Cancer Society, Special Olympics, American Youth Soccer Organization, Little League, the St. Croix Environmental Association, and many more.
Further information about Diageo's charitable giving program can be obtained and space at the St. Thomas luncheon can be reserved by sending an e-mail to dcmrvi@gmail.com.
