NewsVGM announces new 2020 charity partner

Company’s “Be the Change” initiative picks back up with $10,000 donation

VGM Group and its employee owners announced today that its 2020 charity partner will be local health center, Peoples Community Health Clinic.  

The announcement was made during a special check presentation that included an initial $10,000 donation to Peoples Clinic. The commitment is part of a company-wide initiative designed to make a significant impact for one organization within the Cedar Valley.  

VGM’s CEO Mike Mallaro presents Christine Kemp, CEO of Peoples Community Health Clinic, with an initial donation in the amount of $10,000. The commitment is part of a company-wide initiative, Be the Change, designed to make a significant impact for one organization within the Cedar Valley. Joining Mike and Christine are members of VGM’s Community Giving Committee: L-R: Jerry Hoalt (VGM IT). Jenny Hughes (VGM Marketing & Events), Janean Craig (VGM Insurance) and MacKenzie Epping (VGM HOMELINK).

“We wanted to focus on a group that has been particularly impacted by the coronavirus pandemic and continues to play an important role in these challenging times,” said Christa Miehe, president of shared services at VGM Group, Inc.  “Peoples Clinic became the epicenter for treatment during the COVID-19 outbreak. They’re a staple of the Cedar Valley, and we at VGM are thrilled to be making a difference for this incredible organization.”  

VGM is no stranger to supporting community causes. In 2019, the employee-owned company donated over $42,000 to another local nonprofit, House of Hope, and $72,500 to 68 other organizations.

“I want to express my sincerest gratitude for VGM’s generous gift. We are diligent about responsibly using the limited resources we have to provide high quality care to our patients,” said Christine Kemp, CEO of Peoples Community Health Clinic. “When donors step up to help us, it gives us the opportunity to better serve the community, specifically in areas where gaps in care may exist.”

Peoples Clinic has been working in the Cedar Valley for over 40 years. The organization is dedicated to providing access to affordable, compassionate, high quality health care for all. According to Kemp, VGM’s donation will specifically be used to expand their behavioral health services department.

“Behavioral health is experiencing a shortage across the nation, leaving some of our most vulnerable without the mental health care they need. VGM’s contribution will play a part in expanding the certifications of our behavioral health staff,” stated Kemp. “Certifications may include cognitive behavioral therapy techniques, parent/child Integrated therapy and accelerated resolution therapy. Our current and future patients will certainly benefit from our staff having these certifications.”