Instead of throwing a big party for employees and their spouses at the Raleigh Convention Center, Red Hat decided to donate the money they would have spent to Feeding America (via Linux Insider):
Red Hat may not be spending much when it comes to the company holiday party this year, but it certainly is no Scrooge. Rather than splurge on a swanky party for its employees, the Linux distributor will give money and food to charity.
Instead, the Raleigh, N.C., software company will donate the money it would have spent to a food charity chosen by employees.
The move comes as the slumping economy is hurting philanthropic donations and increasing demand among the needy.
“We felt it was the wrong time to be spending a lot of money on ourselves,” said DeLisa Alexander, Red Hat’s senior vice president for people and brand.
Regardless of general economic conditions, donating to charity instead of lavish parties for employees is commendable and sets a good example for all. No need to label it as “CSR” (corporate social responsiblity) — it’s just plain good.
Great idea.