Without Geneva and its surrounding community, there would be no SPIRE Academy. That’s why we have a sense of duty to give back to the people and organizations that we share the area with. Whether it’s giving educational resources to members of the community or providing vital services and supplies to those in need, SPIRE aims to answer that call. This was the catalyst for the creation of the SPIRE Cares Committee, which is an internal team with the mission to give back to the local community in meaningful and impactful ways. 

SPIRE President Jeff Orloff stated his enthusiasm for the Cares Committee and its charitable efforts. “We are so pleased to be able to support the community and show what the ‘SPIRE Way’ is about. SPIRE is mission-driven and one of our core missions is to give back in meaningful ways. Our Cares Committee provides us with that opportunity. We look forward to continuing to have a positive and meaningful impact in the local community.”

We would like to touch on some of the efforts that have been made by not only the Cares Committee but also by SPIRE team members to give back to the community they love so much.

Geneva Grape Jamboree

The Grape Jamboree has been happening every September for the last 58 years! This year, SPIRE employees and academy students dressed in their SPIRE gear to hit the streets and pass out candy, t-shirts and flyers. Our mascot, Sparky, even made an appearance!

SPIRE Open House & Vendor Show

The intention of this free event was to let people know what we’re all about! Small businesses were able to set up shop and interact with the community that supports them, and guests were treated to tours of the SPIRE facilities. The kids were even able to enjoy face painting, games and inflatables.

The inaugural event was a huge success. We loved seeing the hustle and bustle, and hope to make this an annual event!

My Neighborhood Collaborative

In August, SPIRE received a request to get involved in My Neighborhood Collaborative, an Ashtabula Organization that focuses on Community Safety and Education. We were happy to oblige this request! Through the Cares Committee, we were able to donate non-perishable items for food donation to combat food insecurity.

Ashtabula Downtown Development Association

The Ashtabula Downtown Development Association asks different businesses to commit to decorating a Christmas Tree in Kevin Cornelius Park in Ashtabula. Instead of traditional ornaments, you can expect our tree to be adorned with blankets, hats, gloves, scarves and hygiene products, free to be taken to those who need them most.

SPIRE Mom Offering Food to Those Who Need It

One of our Academy moms has taken the initiative and is fighting against food insecurity wherever she sees it. The Cares Committee is doing everything possible to support her, from finding contacts to helping to provide food that she can distribute.

The Geneva and Ashtabula community has been supportive of SPIRE over the years, and it’s time we gave back. We’ll continue to keep our hearts and eyes open for opportunities to enrich the lives of our neighbors. Are you part of a local organization that’s looking for help? Reach out to Sara Lampela at [email protected] for more information.