Associated Industries recognized by the Association of Washington Business for contribution to higher education

(May 11, 2010, Seattle, Wash.) Associated Industries was one of 21 Washington employers recognized for their organizations’ volunteerism and community service by the Association of Washington Business (AWB) Community Services Awards.

At the Annual AWB meeting, held in Spokane, President and CEO Jim DeWalt accepted the 2010 Community Service Award for A.I.’s contribution to education provided through its Associated Industries Bright Promise Program established in 2009 to provide half tuition scholarships to students attending either Eastern Washington University or The Community Colleges of Spokane.

Associated Industries was one of only four organizations recognized for their contributions to Washington State education. The three other companies – Amgen, a biotechnology company; the Office Depot Foundation and Wal-mart Stores Inc. – are all international corporations. Associated Industries – headquartered in Spokane – was the only local company to be recognized for its educational contribution.

“A couple years ago, we saw a need and stepped up to help meet it. I’m exceptionally proud of the work A.I. has done the last two years,” said DeWalt, “providing around 60 scholarships to date. But the need is still strong. I would encourage others – whether a business or an individual – to consider what they might do to help ensure that our region continues to have the talented and skilled workers it needs for years to come.”

The AWB Community Service Awards are AWB’s acknowledgement of member companies – from across the state – for outstanding contributions to their communities. “Even during a deep recession, Washington businesses have found ways to give back to their communities,” said AWB President Don Brunell. “For these employers and their employees, giving back is integral to who they are and what they do. It’s part of how they do business,” he said. “Thanks to their volunteer efforts, the lives of thousands of men, women and children in our state have been a little better this year.”