Kaulig Giving - November 2025

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Matt Kaulig opens both his wallet and his heart to the causes he cares about — and hopes to inspire others to do the same.

THE KAULIG

Since 2018 Kaulig Giving has

“Through the transformational, sustained giving of the Kaulig Foundation children enjoy programs unique to overnight stays in cabins and outdoor activities within our beautiful 72-acre Northeast Ohio property.”

- Camp Ho Mita Koda

“Thank you so guys so much, the whole Kaulig Companies. We can’t do this without you year after year. Consistency is key in giving back and you guys are very consistent in doing that, so thank you.”

- Amber Sabathia: Pitchhin Foundation

“Kaulig is in an incredible machine that helps us with our funding, our messaging, and we wouldn’t be anywhere near where we are today without the support of Kaulig Giving, for sure. They’re just so generous, so giving, and they care. You can tell that they really do care.”

- Fearless Fighter Foundation

“To have Matt and his company come in and be able to provide for the students that are here is an honor and we are so grateful.”

- Lebron James: I Promise

“Kaulig Companies continued partnership has caused a positive ripple effect on kids and families in our community that can not be measured.”

- Akron Children’s Hospital

KAULIG EFFECT

supported more than 400 non-profits.

“Kaulig Giving’s partnership plays a vital role in empowering kids through characterbuilding experiences and creating meaningful connections between youth, law enforcement, and our community. We couldn’t be more thankful for them!”

- First Tee Greater Akron

“The amazing Kaulig team continues to make investments in our students that have an immediate impact. They are one of our best partners and we’re proud to have them as part of our growing family in Akron that is creating a revolutionary model for community building.”

- Lebron James Family Foundation

“Through their support this year alone we have delivered 5,000 NASCAR- themed teddy bears to children in 135 hospitals across all 50 states as well as Mexico and Canada.“

- Nascar Foundation

“We truly could not have achieved this ($53,000 fundraised) without the support of Kaulig Giving. Their sponsorship played a vital role in helping us continue the important work we’re doing for the patients and families at Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital.”

- Colors for Collette

A LETTER FROM MATT KAULIG

PHILANTHROPY IN 2025: GIVING MORE THAN MONEY

When I started Kaulig Giving in 2018, the goal was simple: Support children and families in Northeast Ohio by providing resources that would make a lasting difference.

Since then, we’ve expanded through the Kaulig Foundation, launched in 2019, to provide grantmaking and long-term support to nonprofit organizations working tirelessly to improve the educational, physical and emotional well-being of children and families. Together, through these efforts, we’ve supported more than 400 nonprofits and impacted thousands of lives.

As I look ahead to 2025, my philosophy around giving remains rooted in the same

mission, but with a deeper clarity: True philanthropy is more than writing checks — it’s about showing up, getting involved and teaching others the value of giving. It’s also about striving to positively impact the communities where we live and work.

My years as a quarterback at the University of Akron taught me lessons I carry with me every day. Football is the ultimate team sport. Success comes not from one person but from a group of people

working together, each playing their role, and rallying around a common goal. I see philanthropy the same way. No single person or organization can solve the challenges facing children and families. But when we bring people together — nonprofits, businesses, volunteers and community leaders — we form a team that can truly move the ball down the field and create lasting change.

A perfect example of this kind of teamwork in action is the Kaulig Companies Championship at Firestone Country Club. Putting on a world-class golf tournament takes an incredible effort from many people pulling in the same direction. From the 700 volunteers who dedicate their time, to the patrons who walk through the gates, to the generous sponsors, and to our valued partnership with the City of Akron — every part of the team plays a role. And since every dollar raised during tournament week goes back to charity, it helps us turn the tournament into something much bigger than golf: A force for giving back to the individuals who need it most.

Each of the past three years, the Kaulig Companies Championship has raised more money for charity than the year before. In 2024, we surpassed the $2 million mark — a milestone that shows just how powerful a united team can be when working toward a common goal. The dollars raised directly support organizations that are improving the lives of kids and families across Northeast Ohio and beyond, and this spirit of teamwork mirrors what I’ve seen time and again through our broader philanthropic partnerships.

Over the years, these partnerships have also taught me that the greatest change happens when we commit not only our dollars but also our time, talent and influence. Giving is about building relationships, listening to the needs of our community and working side by side with organizations that are doing the heavy lifting. That’s why at Kaulig Giving, we don’t just fund initiatives — we join them. Whether it’s serving at community events, supporting campaigns or shining a spotlight on positive stories of impact, we’re right there alongside the people making a difference in the communities we call home.

Equally important is passing this philosophy of generosity forward. At Kaulig Giving, we’re intentional about teaching others — especially young people — that giving isn’t reserved for those of a certain age or financial means. Anyone can give. A smile, an hour of service, a kind word of encouragement — all are powerful acts of generosity. By inspiring the next generation to see giving as part of daily life, we create a culture of compassion and responsibility that extends well beyond our own reach and strengthens every community where we live and work.

Giving is about building relationships, listening to the needs of our community, and working side by side with organizations that are doing the heavy lifting.

MATT KAULIG

As 2025 unfolds, my focus is clear: Stick to the mission, trust the partnerships we’ve built and expand the ripple effect of generosity. Because when children and families are supported — whether in the classroom, on the field or in their own homes — they thrive. And when they thrive; our entire community thrives.

That’s the heart of giving. Not just money. Not just time. But a way of living that lifts others up and teaches us all what it means to truly make an impact.

— MATT KAULIG

EMPLOYEE

GIVING

EVERYONE GETS TO GIVE

Kaulig’s employee giving program puts their money where there mouth is

AT KAULIG COMPANIES, PHILANTHROPY ISN’T JUST SOMETHING THEY TALK ABOUT — it’s something they live out together. Each November, every employee in Ohio and North Carolina has the opportunity to choose a nonprofit close to their heart to receive a $1,000 donation from Matt Kaulig. What began as a simple idea in 2021 has grown into a powerful tradition, with nearly $150,000 distributed to charities each year.

The idea came to life during a routine Kaulig Giving team meeting when Matt

and spreads the giving to everyone.

said, “You know what would be cool? Let’s have every employee choose a nonprofit to receive a $1,000 donation.” That spark has now ignited four years of meaningful impact, empowering employees to support causes that matter most to them — from local schools and food banks to health organizations and youth programs.

This initiative not only amplifies the reach of Kaulig Giving but also reflects the company’s belief that philanthropy is a team effort. By trusting employees to direct these gifts,

the program creates a ripple effect across their communities while reinforcing what it means to work for a company that puts giving at the heart of everything it does.

The real power of this program lies in the stories — employees sharing why they chose their nonprofit, what it means to them personally, and how it feels to be part of a workplace that values giving over everything else. Together, these stories paint a picture of what philanthropy looks like when it’s personal, purposeful, and deeply rooted in community.

KIMMY DE HELP ME GROW

“Reconnecting with Help Me Grow was a full-circle moment for me. Ten years ago, they were a vital part of our family’s journey. When your child is born and suffers a birth injury, your greatest fear as a parent is what does the future look like for them, and whether they’ll reach their milestones. Help Me Grow eased those fears and truly became family to us. They were there until my son took his first steps, offering the hope and confidence our family needed. You can never truly repay that kind of love and support. But thanks to Matt’s generosity, I was able to donate $1,000 back to the organization so another family can experience the same care, comfort and hope that meant so much to us.”

MIKE HOWENSTINE ZELLIE’S HOME

“I proudly support this amazing organization as they empower pregnant and parenting women to embrace motherhood in a safe and caring environment.”

ONE OF A KIND PETS

“Kaulig Giving provides so much to our communities each year and this provides me the opportunity to play a part in that great work. Working here has definitely made me emphasize charity in my own personal life and see the impact of even the smallest gift.”

MICHELE MANILA AMERICAN FOUNDATION FOR SUICIDE PREVENTION

“Too many people feel shame in talking about mental illness. They don’t feel seen or heard, and it’s causing an epidemic in our world. We lose too many wonderful people because of it, and it shouldn’t be stigmatized. To work with and for a company that cares so much about the local community is not only a wonderful opportunity; it is a humbling experience. To see the impact and the joy, to see their faces light up knowing that they aren’t forgotten is indescribable.”

MIKE WEST

BETTER KENMORE

“I chose to donate to Better Kenmore because of its commitment to revitalizing the Kenmore neighborhood in Akron, where I have personal ties. Being part of a workplace that prioritizes giving back makes this donation even more meaningful, as I’m surrounded by like-minded colleagues. This contribution feels like a natural extension of our company’s culture, which values creating positive change in our community.”

MICHELLE MCMAHON KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS

“This is one the of best parts about Kaulig Companies that makes us unique. In my career, I have never worked for an organization that has put such an emphasis on supporting the community surrounding it.”

LAUREN FLETCHER PURPLE BAG PROJECT

“My grandparents are veterans, and I honor those who are currently serving. This organization sends care packages to deployed service members to remind them that there are people at home thinking of them on a daily basis.”

TIPS FOR IMPACTFUL GIVING

1. DON’T GIVE OVER THE PHONE. Instead, request information to be sent via email or mail. This will give you the chance to confirm the legitimacy of the non-profit.

2. VISIT A NONPROFIT’S WEBSITE AND ITS PROFILE ON GUIDESTAR.ORG. Pay attention to the organization’s mission, projects, staff, board, location, and other details. Assess the organization’s financial health by viewing its Form 990 tax filing.

3. DOUBLE YOUR IMPACT. Look for opportunities to make your giving go further by taking advantage of incentives such as workplace matches or the Ohio income tax credit through the Angel Scholarship Fund.

4. EXPECT TO BE CONTACTED BY THE NONPROFIT. Good fundraising professionals should thank you for your contribution, and then, work to get to know you, understand reasons you are giving to their organization, and find ways to introduce you to their work and projects that may resonate with you.