For the past eight years Jeane Thorne Inc. has underwritten the cost of a charitable golf invitational, netting over $282,000 for the valuable programs St. Joseph’s Home for Children offers to children at risk. In addition to the funds raised, the event helps to raise community awareness of the needs of the children at St. Joseph’s.

Each year, a significant commitment of time is given by Jeane Thorne staff to achieve a successful event. The overall initiative stems from the desire of the company’s leadership to carry out its core value of forming and maintaining solid partnerships among business, education, and community. Says owner Mary Marso, “The future of our community rests in the emotional health and development of our children… My life experience has shown me what a great impact just one adult can have in making a difference for a child… The funds raised through our annual event will aid many healthy, energetic, children in need of love, support, and hope.”

In 2002, a difficult economic year, the fundraising effort was continued with a new twist. Jeane Thorne staff, clients, vendors, and friends spent the afternoon with over 50 residents of St. Joseph's playing miniature golf on St. Joseph’s grounds. With the generosity of more than a dozen organizations over $26,000 was raised to support St. Joseph's.

Since 1991, the Chamber has annually presented its Quality of Life Awards as a way of recognizing the role businesses play in enhancing the region's quality of life. Winners are selected by a panel of representatives from the Twin Cities' business, public and non-profit sectors. “The companies that receive Quality of Life Awards are focused on the community and make a significant commitment – whether it be a financial commitment, employee time, and many times both – to do something to benefit the communities where we live and do business,” stated Angela Sterns, interim president for the Minneapolis Regional Chamber. “These commitments are momentous in the midst of a weakened economy, and bring hope and restoration to the blighted areas of our communities. We applaud their efforts and encourage other businesses to follow their examples.”

Jeane Thorne received its award at the Quality of Life Awards dinner on Tuesday, March 18 at the Hilton Minneapolis. 

To read more about the annual golf event, click here.