Putnam Chamber Of Commerce Looking For Businesses To Adopt Local Schools

The Putnam County Chamber of Commerce is seeking businesses to adopt local schools.

The adoption process allows businesses to help local schools by coming up with an “adoption plan”. In this plan it is decided if the business will donate money to the school or volunteer their time to the school.

Natalie Saxon is Membership Manager for the Cookeville Putnam County Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber manages the adoption program. Saxon said the adoption plans are very flexible.

“It kind of up to the school and the adopter and what they are able to contribute,” Saxon said. “Its just a great way to get involved in the community and get to know the schools better and also be a role model for the kids at the schools.”

Saxon said the business shows support to the schools though financial donations, volunteering for events, or volunteering to greet students as they go to school.

“The best thing that comes out of it for the kids or the schools is the career exploration,” Saxon said. “Its a huge piece of planting those seeds and saying hey this is something you can do one day, this is a company you could be involved in.”

Saxon said the schools and students benefit from the program in numerous ways but getting the opportunity to shadow local business owners is invaluable. Saxon also said the business benefits as well.

“It’s super beneficial for the business,” Saxon said. “It’s also that feeling you get when you know you’re making a difference or you know you’re making someone feel special, or when you are able to go above and beyond.”

The program has been sponsored by the Chamber for over a decade. Saxon said she is proud of the success of the program over the years.