The Consult

Moving Philanthropy Forward: HRP's Clays for a Cause

As autumn approaches, HRP is gearing up for two of our most anticipated philanthropic events: the 4th Annual Clays 4 Cancer in South Carolina and the 2nd Annual Clays 4 Kids in Connecticut. These events are more than just fundraisers; they are a celebration of community, unity, and a shared commitment to giving back. At the heart of these gatherings is a common goal: to support causes that matter while bringing together people from all walks of life in a relaxed, casual atmosphere.

“Our Clays events are a testament to HRP’s dedication to giving back,” says Dan Titus, CEO. “It’s a day where our company’s mantra, ‘Work hard. Play hard. Give back,’ is brought to life in a powerful way.”

Clay shooting might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about philanthropy, but its appeal lies in its ability to bring people together. Regardless of background, experience, or skill level, participants find common ground in this sport. The casual and non-competitive nature of these events encourages camaraderie between individuals who might not otherwise cross paths. Whether you're an experienced shooter or a first-timer, the focus is not on who hits the most targets, but on enjoying the moment, supporting one another, and contributing to a greater cause. This is the essence of HRP's Clays 4 Kids and Clays 4 Cancer events—bringing people together in a shared mission to make a difference.

Clays 4 Kids
Inspiring the Next Generation

Scheduled for September 10, 2024, at the East Glastonbury Fish and Game Association in Marlborough, Connecticut, Clays 4 Kids is more than just a fun day out. It’s an event with a purpose. The funds raised this year will be donated to Petals and S.T.E.M. Incorporated, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering young women of color as they pursue education and careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) fields.

Petals and S.T.E.M.’s focus on providing support and opportunity for young women of color to surpass barriers to education and career success is commendable. “We are excited about the work that they do to inspire and support young women living in Environmental Justice communities to pursue education and careers in the STEM fields” says Jason Beach, Principal and Regional Manager of HRP’s Connecticut offices. “This is a terrific organization. We look forward to not only helping them with the financial proceeds raised during the Clays 4 Kids event, but also volunteering in the classroom and helping with STEM themed field trip opportunities. It would be awesome to hire graduated students that were supported by this organization to join our environmental consulting practice someday,” added Mr. Beach.

"Petals and S.T.E.M. is a beacon of empowerment for women of color in STEM, offering invaluable support and opportunities that fuel both personal and professional growth. HRP deeply appreciates their commitment to fostering talent and nurturing the next generation of leaders in Waterbury,” says Alicia Washington, Director of Pursuits and Engagement at HRP.

Founded by Hannah Butler in 2022, Petals and S.T.E.M. provides mentorship, inspiration, and a supportive network to young women from Environmental Justice Communities of Concern. The organization’s mission aligns perfectly with HRP’s commitment to education and community engagement. By supporting Clays 4 Kids, participants are directly contributing to a brighter future for these young women, helping to break down barriers and open doors to opportunities that might have otherwise been out of reach.

Clays 4 Cancer
A Battle Close to Our Hearts

On October 25, 2024, HRP will host its 4th Annual Clays 4 Cancer event at the Clinton House Plantation in South Carolina. This event holds a special place in the hearts of HRP employees, clients, and their families, many of whom have been personally touched by cancer. The proceeds from this event will support the American Cancer Society (ACS), furthering the fight against a disease that has affected so many lives.

HRP’s South Region routinely participates in a wide variety of philanthropic events that directly impact their communities and provide a basis for galvanizing team interpersonal relationships.

“Coming out of the pandemic we were kicking around the idea of hosting an annual event that we could build upon year over. At the same point in time, our male staff were routinely participating in October’s Men Wear Pink campaign that benefits the American Cancer Society. With the notion that sporting clay events are the new golf tournament, Clays 4 Cancer was born from the idea that HRP could host an annual event that supports the Men Wear Pink campaign by attracting the participation of companies, individuals, and families from all dimensions of the South Carolina business community,” says Shaun Malin, Regional Manager at HRP. “As we approach year four, I’m pleased to see how the event has grown, but more importantly, how the post-shoot luncheon fosters an environment for folks to share their story, and/or their connection with the fight against cancer. That right there is icing on the cake.”

Both Clays 4 Kids and Clays 4 Cancer embody the spirit of HRP’s philanthropic efforts. These events are about more than just raising funds; they’re about creating a sense of community. In a world where divisions often seem more prominent than commonalities, events like these remind us of the power of unity. Whether it’s supporting the next generation of STEM leaders through Clays 4 Kids or standing in the fight against cancer with Clays 4 Cancer, events like these demonstrate that when people come together with a shared purpose, they can make a profound impact.