January 23, 2025

Every year, Garmin associates step up in a big way and generously raise money for the company’s United Way campaign.

In 2024, a new standard was set.

With the Garmin match, Garmin associates helped raise nearly $3.9 million, surpassing last year’s total by more than $1 million. The latest totals brought Garmin’s total contribution to more than $24 million since the fundraising initiative began in 1999.

The campaign aims to support the partners of United Way, a worldwide nonprofit organization that strives to improve lives by mobilizing the caring power of communities to advance the common good.

“We are transforming lives and creating a legacy in the communities where we operate, benefiting more than 500 non-profit organizations across the nation and making a difference in countless lives,” said Jennifer Pozzuolo, manager of HR recruiting and champion of Garmin’s United Way campaign.

‘One of my favorite benefits’

When donating, participating associates can direct their pledge to the organization they care most about. And that donation is then matched dollar-for-dollar by Garmin.

“Garmin’s United Way match is one of my favorite benefits,” said Tyler Harms, team lead of the embedded networking technology team. “About a decade ago I set a goal to donate 10% of my salary. I knew I’d have to work my way up, so I started seriously around 1% and have increased my contributions each year.”

Nearly a decade later, Harms has surpassed that goal.

“I’m so grateful to work for a company that so readily supports causes that are important to its individual associates,” he said.

Campaign events contribute to success

The headline events at the Garmin Olathe campus contributed greatly to the overall success of the campaign.

In tandem with celebrating the 35th anniversary of the company, associates participated in a community service project and a blood drive during the first two weeks of September 2024. Associates packed backpacks for those in need of school supplies at Kansas City area schools. In total, volunteers filled all 3,500 backpacks.

“Our commitment to giving back is what sets Garmin apart,” Pozzuolo said.