Living in the south, the weather is almost always ideal for spending time outside and getting moving. For Regions associates, there are numerous opportunities to enjoy the outdoors while giving back to their local community and earning wellness rewards.
From the Tour de Turns event in Charlotte, North Carolina, to the Team Rowland Ride in Birmingham, Alabama, associates have been logging their miles, both in person and virtually, to support local charities.
“We routinely participate in running and cycling events in the Charlotte market,” said Mike Mason, head of Regions’ M&A Integration team and team captain for these events in Charlotte. “Tour de Turns is the most visible, given that Regions is the title sponsor, but we have fielded teams for a number of 5K road races, including the YMCA Corporate Cup Half Marathon, over the last few years.”
In August, Regions associates participated and volunteered for Tour de Turns, raising more than $19,000 for Loaves and Fishes.
“While most of these events have a charitable component, whereby associates raise money for important causes, I feel strongly that there is as much benefit for our associates – and those who we inspire,” Mason said.
An added bonus for Regions associates participating in these sponsored events is the opportunity to earn wellness rewards.
“Everyone knows that regular exercise is important,” said Niki Bourque, Regions Corporate Wellness administrator. “It can protect you from disease, help you lose weight, improve your mood, and help you live longer. It can also be fun if you choose activities you enjoy. Find something you enjoy and go out and do it! If there is an event you can participate in that raises money for a charity and you get some exercise and socialization out of it, that’s a win-win!”
Sarah Moss from Community Affairs participated virtually in this year’s Team Rowland Ride, an event that is part of the Michael J. Fox Foundation network raising money for Parkinson’s research.
“Regions has supported Team Rowland for several years, and this year we were able to triple our giving to this organization,” Moss said. “It is a great opportunity to give back, while promoting wellness in our communities.”
In Huntsville, Alabama, Regions associates participated in the Over the Edge event supporting Kids to Love, an organization that helps support the needs of North Alabama children.
Memphis, Tennessee, is the backdrop for a number of fall sponsorship events, including the Big River Crossing Race (benefitting Peer Power Foundation) that took place on Nov. 5. Peer Power’s mission is to inspire and empower youth to take control of their academic success while seeking to close equity gaps that exist within the public school system.
“Regions had more than 60 volunteers onsite along with the Big Bike and activated several engagement opportunities with over 1,500 race participants,” shared Kimberly Moore, Community Relations officer. “Volunteers assisted with games, a Regions spirit station, food service and water stations.”
The organization’s largest fundraising event, the 6th annual Big River Crossing Race brought in more than $175,000 this year. Lance Cowles, Private Wealth executive for West Tennessee, was on hand to give remarks at this year’s event and shared his thoughts around the why behind Regions’ involvement in these types of community fundraising events.
Our mission at Regions is to make life better for those who live in the communities where we serve. To be able to partner with an organization like Peer Power, which has a similar mission, makes this partnership special.
Lance Cowles, Private Wealth executive for Regions
“Our mission at Regions is to make life better for those who live in the communities where we serve,” said Cowles. “To be able to partner with an organization like Peer Power, which has a similar mission, makes this partnership special. Their Success Coaches, students, school principals and other partners turned out in a mighty way for the race and our team at Regions was thrilled to be part of this event!”
Katherine Kaelin of Peer Power shared her thanks for Regions serving as the title sponsor of this year’s event. Her father started the Peer Power Foundation, and she and her brother are carrying on the legacy since his passing last year.
“I wanted to extend a personal thank you for your sponsorship of Peer Power’s Big River Crossing Race,” Kaelin said. “I loved the ‘big bike’ as well as all the wonderful volunteers and participants you all provided! Peer Power is doing amazing work in our city, and with your help we will be reaching even more of our city’s youth. I truly appreciate your support as we continue Dad’s legacy and help to improve our wonderful city.”
There are so many reasons to get involved and get outside.
“From finding work-life balance to managing stress to simply feeling good enough to bring your entire self to work each day, these activities are a win for our associates, our communities, and Regions,” Mason said.
