The Johnson Controls Foundation is digging into its pockets to the tune of $1.2 million, distributed as grants to four community organisations in Milwaukee.
The aim, as stated in the press release, is to "advance education and health initiatives" in the neighbourhoods surrounding their North American HQ. Since 2015, they've apparently splashed out $5.7 million in the area. Good for them, assuming the bean counters agree.
The beneficiaries include the American Heart Association and Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee. Each will receive $300,000 over two years, which, if properly managed, should keep the lights on and maybe even fund some actual programmes.
Foundation Fortitude: Brenna Holly, President of the Johnson Controls Foundation, offered the usual platitudes about "building stronger, healthier, and more resilient communities." One hopes the reality on the ground reflects these sentiments.
The American Heart Association plans "Community Listening Sessions" – let's hope those sessions are followed by actual action. The Boys & Girls Clubs are slated to receive funding for "leadership and service, college and career readiness and STEAM education." Always nice to see STEAM getting some love, though one wonders how many of those kids will actually end up designing next-gen AHUs.
Corporate Generosity: Johnson Controls are keen to push their commitment to "smart, healthy and sustainable buildings" through their OpenBlue offering. It's all about "reimagining the performance of buildings," apparently.
Johnson Controls, a sprawling conglomerate with roots stretching back to 1885, has increasingly focused on building automation and energy efficiency in recent years. Their OpenBlue platform aims to integrate building systems for improved performance and sustainability, a growing trend in the real estate and construction industries as companies and governments face increasing pressure to reduce their environmental footprint.
Benevolence or Brand Boost? The investment supports health outcomes, literacy, STEAM education. The Johnson Controls Foundation is, according to the press release, keen to support programmes near where many of its corporate employees live and work.
Milwaukee, Wisconsin has a well-documented history of socio-economic disparities across its neighbourhoods. Concentrated poverty and lack of access to resources continue to pose challenges, particularly on the city's northwest side. Investment in this area, therefore, has the potential to make a tangible difference, addressing critical needs and fostering community development.
This also falls in line with the growing trend of corporate social responsibility (CSR) programmes, where companies increasingly tie employee engagement to philanthropic initiatives.
The Johnson Controls Foundation continues its legacy of community investment with a renewed commitment to empowering Milwaukee’s northwest side.
