Chris Watson and his family at our 2016 Memories Walk
Chris Watson, Regional Sales Manager at MathWorks, has been a stalwart friend to TCR for many years as well as a volunteer peer support group facilitator. Eight years ago, when Chris wanted to maximize the impact of his charitable giving to TCR, he chose to take advantage of MathWorks’s matching gift program, which, per individual donor, matches one hundred percent of all donations up to $500.
When asked about his inspiration for connecting to TCR through matching gifts, Chris is quick to credit the culture at his office. “MathWorks actively encourages its employees to take advantage of its matching gift program in order to support causes that they feel deeply about,” he said. “Not only has using the program allowed me to double my giving dollars to TCR, I’m proud that, by participating, I’ve built strong relationships with likeminded people here who are passionate about fundraising for great causes.”
“We have an internal news group specifically dedicated to showcasing and sharing charity work,” Chris added. “It’s wonderful to hear about the causes that others are so committed to helping, and it helps create an environment of mutual respect for the work we’re each doing in the community. It also fosters reciprocal giving.”
When asked some of his best tips for getting started with setting up a matching gift program, he encourages those who are interested to first connect with the social mission liaison at their employer. That staff person will usually be found in your office’s human resources department.
“Connecting with the appropriate staff person at your office will allow you to educate yourself on the process of giving matching gifts regularly, and it will allow you to explore the best ways to reach out to your fellow coworkers about your cause or mission,” he says. “They can also help you identify and connect with those who are experienced with the program. Reaching out to those who are already committed to giving matching gifts can be a helpful resource, especially as you get started.”
Chris’s final word, once the matching gift has been set up? “For anyone who is particularly shy about asking others to help them by supporting their cause or those who have never asked for money in this way before: don’t be afraid to ask!”
“I’ve been truly humbled by this process,” Chris added. “I’ve been humbled not just by the dollars raised but by the graciousness and the warmth of the responses from the people I have reached out to.”
We encourage you to follow Chris’s example and explore matching gifts at your office today.
Thank you, Chris, for all you do for TCR!
If you have questions about or need help with matching gifts, please contact Becca at becca@childrensroom.org or 781-641-4741, x334.
