South Jersey Industries has donated more than $46,000 to the Southern New Jersey Chapter of the American Red Cross, the company recently announced.
The gift includes more than $23,000 in pledges from SJI employees as part of the company’s annual giving campaign, matched dollar-for-dollar by SJI. In total, this year’s campaign raised more than $350,000 for various organizations — a new record for the company.
“The American Red Cross is grateful to the generous employees of South Jersey Industries,” said Rachel Lippoff, executive director of the Southern New Jersey Chapter. “We value this ongoing partnership and look forward to many years of collaboration with SJI to help prevent and alleviate human suffering in the face of emergencies.”
SJI also announced that Shawn Abner-Purnell, the company’s chief diversity officer, has been appointed to the Red Cross Chapter’s Board of Directors. Abner-Purnell succeeds Donna Schempp, SJI’s chief administrative officer, who is stepping down after nine years of board service.
“We are grateful for the many years Donna Schempp has dedicated to the American Red Cross,” Lippoff said. “It is our pleasure to welcome Shawn Abner-Purnell, who we know will continue the SJI legacy of leadership and service.”
Schempp said it was an honor to support the chapter’s mission over the past decade.
“To execute on the organization’s mission of providing care and support to so many in need due to unforeseen circumstances is truly fulfilling and rewarding,” she said.
Abner-Purnell said she looks forward to continuing the company’s tradition of service.
“It is an honor to be part of an organization that embodies compassion, resilience and unwavering commitment to helping others in their darkest hours,” she said.
SJI is a committed community partner, supporting organizations throughout the state with financial contributions and volunteer service.
