What do your pockets, the counter at the supermarket and the sidewalk have in common? Odds are you can find loose change scattered about, with little to no second thought given to it. What if we picked up all that change? Could it be enough to help those in need?
Last year the TSA collected $76,000 in change left at security checkpoints in New York City area’s three major airports. While pocket change may seem too small to make a difference, it can have a big impact on our community.
I am fortunate to work at TD Bank, a company that engages deeply with our customers. For example, we recently launched a charitable program called “Bring Change,” which uses the coin-counting Penny Arcades in our stores. From now through February 2016, we’re inviting 500 communities to donate a few coins to support organizations locally. TD will support the effort by matching the donations up to $2,000.
Recently launched in New York City, the charitable campaign now extends to Long Island. I’m proud that my TD Bank store, located at 1354 Hicksville Rd. in Massapequa, was chosen to participate. On July 24, we will collect and count change to support YES Community Counseling Center, a non-profit organization offering social work, counseling and drug/alcohol treatments to the residents of southeastern Nassau County. Small change can chip away at the costs associated with maintaining YES Community Counseling Center and providing services to those who are struggling and seeking help.
Think of it like dropping a pebble in a pond. No matter how small, it will create ripples. By supporting the causes that matter most in our communities, we can all take pride in knowing even small change can bring big impact.
Iraklis Nikolopoulos, TD Bank Store Manager in North Massapequa
