Disadvantaged, abused and neglected children in Northern Colorado received nearly 400 donated bicycles in the 2008 holiday season through a program sponsored by Benjamin Franklin Plumbing. Bart Palmer, owner of the franchise business, says that “doing good in the community contributes to a positive company culture that enhances the company’s success.”  

The annual bicycle giveaway project works with bike shops to gather and refurbish bicycles donated by area residents. On Dec. 13, the children selected their bicycles.

In the sponsorship announcement, Palmer stated that the donated bikes represent freedom for these children. “It gives the child a sense of independence – that he or she can go anyplace on his or her own power.”

Palmer’s Benjamin Franklin sponsored advertising for the bicycle giveaway and contributes monthly to operations at the charitable organization Realities for Children. Palmer has been in business since 1991 and converted to a Benjamin Franklin franchise in 2006. He has 12 employees and runs approximately 3,300 service calls annually.

“We have a social responsibility as a corporate neighbor in the community,” Palmer said in the announcement. “But beyond that, it feels good to make a positive difference. This sense of well-being and contributing back to the community extends to our employees and our company’s culture. In turn, we earn the respect of our community and potential customers. What you give to the world, you get back.”