When Whole Foods enters a new market, they do more than just open a store. They become part of the neighborhood. Community outreach has become just as synonymous with Whole Foods as the clean, organic foods they sell. And, when they decided to open a store in Kennesaw, the first thing they did was ask what they can do to give back, add value, and endear themselves to the community.
The Whole Foods Kennesaw store will have its grand opening on October 6th and has pledged 5% of opening day sales to the Swift-Cantrell Park Foundation.
“At Whole Foods Market, one of our Core Values is to serve and support local communities,” says Carrie Rodgers, Whole Foods Community Liaison. “Swift-Cantrell Park is a vital part of our new Kennesaw community and we are so pleased to be able to support the Foundation whose mission is to maintain and preserve this wonderful park.”
The Swift-Cantrell Park Foundation vows to make good use of the donation.
“We currently have three projects that we are passionate about doing at the park, remarks longtime SCPF board member, Lee Elliott. Our goal is to use the money to erect shade structures at the skatepark, resurface the dog park, and build a butterfly and bird sanctuary in the Children’s Forest.”
In addition to the support of Whole Foods, the Swift-Cantrell Park Foundation raises money by hosting a large 5k race (The Swift-Cantrell Classic), from sponsors like Gas South, and through donations from area residents.