The Power of Giving Back: How Our Employees Are Making A Difference

  • April 22, 2024

Giving back. Getting involved. And making a difference. Volunteering is essential to creating a better world.

Through our company donation matching program, we’re helping our employees double the impact of their volunteer work. As part of this program, employees earn ten dollars — or the regional equivalent — for each hour they volunteer, which is donated to charities or causes close to their hearts. 

Retirees from Stanley Black & Decker can continue their participation in the matching program for up to five years following their retirement. One retired employee, Mary Pat S., is getting involved in her community by working with The Dana-Farber Cancer Institute — a cancer care and research center in New England. Since 2017, she’s been raising money for the organization by running races, including the Boston Marathon in 2022 and 2024. 

Her impact has been astonishing. Since starting in 2017, she’s raised over $130,000, which includes over $44,000 she earned through the company matching program. As we celebrate Mary Pat for her amazing achievements, we asked her to share her experiences.

Mary Pat S. in a race
Retired employee, Mary Pat S. in the middle

On her involvement with The Dana-Farber Cancer Institute 

“In January 2012, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. It was an overwhelming time, trying to take in the volume of information, understand our options and ensure we had the best path. That is when my family and I met the Dana-Farber team. 

The team was extremely thorough, answered all our questions, comforted us and made us feel like we were the only ones there. We knew we were in the right place. Throughout my surgeries, chemo and follow-ups, the doctors, nurses and staff were always kind, calming and caring. I can't put into words the care provided — they were always there for us.” 

 

On why she runs 

“Running is my way of giving back to the organization that has given so much to me, my family and my friends. It was someone's donations that led to the treatment I received, and our donations will lead to a cure for others. 

I run for Ava, my Dana-Farber Patient Partner, who is five years old and undergoing treatment for lymphoblastic leukemia. She is a sweetheart — full of spunk, strong, independent and has a beautiful smile. 

I run to honor the doctors, nurses and researchers who work tirelessly to find a cure. 

I run in honor of those currently in treatment, those who've gone ahead of us and those who have survived. They are all in my heart on race day.” 

 

On the importance of company matching 

“Company matching makes a significant difference in the fundraising efforts, and it means the world to me to have the support of company matching to help us find a cure. I do believe our donations will help researchers find a cure. I couldn't have done this without the support of family and friends. Their support is humbling, and I am forever grateful.”