PORTLAND — Make-A-Wish Maine has announced that AIM Recycling, with locations in Caribou and Bangor, is its top new donor business in 2015. The company’s total donation exceeded $30,000 and will grant wishes for five Maine children.
“AIM Recycling eyes one goal — to become a world leader in recycled materials, but we know that accomplishing this starts at a local level. We opened five metal recycling locations in Maine and our goal is to help others in local communities in which we expanded,” said Dick Belisle from AIM Recycling.
“Make-A-Wish and their mission to grant a wish to sick kids was an easy choice. We know the money raised will go to good use.” The company raised over $30,000 with a variety of efforts, including a $1 donation for each ton of metal recycled, a raffle for a new truck, a golf tournament, and donation stands at events around the state.
When asked about a memorable moment during the fundraising period, Belisle pointed to the overwhelming support from Mainers, who oftentimes would donate their entire scrap metal load to Make-A-Wish. “They would see the Make-A-Wish sign and wanted to help as much as they could,” he said.
“AIM represents the very best in a community-minded company,” explained Sonya Purington, marketing director at Make-A-Wish Maine. “Their team has worked tirelessly around the state to raise funds; in fact, their donation is the single largest received this year from a new donor business.”
Purington continued, “Each time we connect with them, they’re serving up yet another measure to raise funds for Maine kids. It’s inspirational.”
In addition to fundraising efforts, AIM has offered multiple events and opportunities where Wish Kids gain exclusive access, including a behind-the-scenes tour and pit passes offered to Maine Wish Kids at the recent AIM Oxford 250.
“We’re eager to see where we go from here,” said Rebecca Leaming, development manager at Make-A-Wish, about the promise of AIM and their commitment to Make-A-Wish.
Make-A-Wish grants the wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy. As of September 2015, they have granted over 1,200 wishes. This coming year, the organization expects to grant the greatest wish of over 70 seriously ill Maine children.
For information visit www.maine.wish.org.
