Family Focused Philanthropy at Charlotte Pipe & Foundry

Charlotte Pipe & Foundry is a fourth generation family run enterprise that strives to treat people like family.

 

So supporting United Way’s work to uplift local families is a natural fit for the nation’s top maker of cast iron and plastic pipe and fittings.

 

The most unique element of Charlotte Pipe’s partnership with United Way is in how it leverages its longstanding company relationships for the benefit of the local community, particularly through two golf tournaments – one by the Plastics division in Monroe, and the other by the Cast Iron division in Charlotte.

 

“All materials suppliers invest in trade shows and networking to build relationships with manufacturers,” said Chad Griffin, Plastics senior vice president. “We asked if they’d be interested in joining us for a golf tournament instead, with all sponsor proceeds invested into helping those in need in the Charlotte region. They love it – they build stronger business relationships, have fun, and give back all at the same time.”

 

Most of the vendors come in from out of town, too – meaning Charlotte Pipe is bringing funds into the community that otherwise would not come to our region.

 

“And because Charlotte Pipe pays for all tourney expenses, 100 percent of participation and sponsorship fees go to United Way,” he continued.

 

The two tournaments raise about $250,000 per year. The Monroe tournament, which is the older of the two and will be played for the 15th time this fall, has raised around $1.5 million for the community on its own.

 

Beyond Charlotte Pipe’s golf tournaments, its generous corporate foundation, and employee giving at all facilities nationwide, the Plastics division is particularly involved with United Way’s Union County board of directors, chairing this year’s local community investment process and helping the campaign cabinet call on other Union County businesses.

 

Such close community involvement is a Charlotte Pipe tradition that goes back generations – and their work will affect generations of local families to come.