Reading Business Contributes to Team Wilcox Fundraising Efforts

READING, Mass. - April 5, 2013 - PRLog -- Easter week was an especially meaningful time at Reading’s signature sweet shop, The Chocolate Truffle, with customers contributing roughly $375 towards a disabled Reading resident’s medical expenses through the business’s give back program: Fundraising Days.

During Fundraising Days, a local group picks a designated day or week. Then they promote the event to their supporters, reminding them to shop at The Chocolate Truffle during the designated time, either in person, online, or by phone.  When a customer mentions the organization during the transaction, the receipt is set aside. All receipts are tallied at the end of the designated time period, and The Chocolate Truffle contributes 15 percent of the tally.

Team Wilcox is a fundraising effort for Reading resident Jim Wilcox, who suffered quadriplegia as a result of spinal surgery last fall. The fund was established to cover medical expenses and necessities such as an electric-chair accessible van and home modifications needed to support Jim’s transition back to his Reading home.

Through Fundraising Days, Team Wilcox raised $375 for Jim and his family.

According to Erin Gesmundo, coordinator of Team Wilcox, “The way the whole community supported this family was wonderful. I thank Erin for being one of the inspirations for putting this event together. If it hadn’t been for her encouragement, advice and support, it wouldn’t have happened.”

Erin Calvo-Bacci, owner of The Chocolate Truffle, said, “The Team Wilcox fundraiser was a wonderful opportunity for everyone to come together to support a family that is actively involved in the community. For me, this represented everything that Easter is about: rebirth, renewal and hope. As a business owner, I know I have an opportunity to share this story with people. The success of fundraising such as this is dependent on the entire community working together.”

“Fundraising Days are a great way for organizations and local businesses to collaborate in a win-win relationship. The organizations are in dire need of financial support from the community as are the businesses. Working together to help support each other builds strong communities.”

For more information about The Chocolate Truffle or Fundraising Days, please call 781-944-7155.