Timberland Global Leadership Team Cooks and Serves Meals to Support Local Homeless Organization

Timberland’s Global Leadership Team recently cooked and served dinner to 75 residents of Cross Roads House, non-profit organization that supports community members who are experiencing – or have recently experienced -- homelessness. The team, which had convened at the outdoor lifestyle brand’s global headquarters in Stratham NH for a strategy meeting, dedicated the afternoon to serve the local community together.

While the global leaders collaborate year-round to drive Timberland’s business, this was the first time they had worked together in a kitchen, to cook a meal for 75 people.  The menu included chicken cacciatore, rice, baked zucchini and summer squash, tossed salad, corn on the cob, and a fruit salad -- with baked chicken wings and French fries for kids.  The leaders also worked together to make and decorate a cake.

“It was fun to see the global leaders work together in new and different ways,” said Atlanta McIlwraith, senior manager of community engagement and communications for Timberland.  “Each leader made a unique contribution to the meal – whether they chopped vegetables in a creative way, added an unexpected pinch of curry powder or drizzle of olive oil to the sauce, or decorated the cake.  They all took great pride in creating a truly collaborative and globally inspired meal.”

Team members also washed dishes, organized the food pantry, and served the meal.  “There are so many benefits to serving together,” said Tracy Smith, Vice President and General Manager of Timberland Americas.  “Team service helps us meet the needs of local organizations that strengthen our communities.  Service also builds our internal community as we come to know each other better, which enables us to collaborate more effectively. Service really is a win for our community, a win for our employees and a win for our business as well.”

Cross Roads House provides emergency and transitional shelter to homeless men, women, and children in the Seacoast area. The organization provides families and individuals with basic necessities, as well as the tools and guidance they need to return to permanent housing.

Since 1992, Timberland has offered employees paid time to serve the community.  Employees receive up to 40 paid community service hours each year through the brand’s Path of Service™ program. Employees are welcome to join company-sponsored service days or to serve either individually or in smaller teams in ways that speak to their own passions.  For more information about Timberland’s efforts to create responsible products, protect and restore the outdoors, and serve communities worldwide, visit https://www.timberland.com/responsibility.html.