The giving season: Cisco raises $80,000 for 4 local non-profits

RALEIGH – The giving season is in full kick, and Cisco is giving back in a big way.

The tech conglomerate, with a big presence in the Triangle, has raised $80,000 for four local non-profits: Ronald McDonald House of Durham and Wake, Marbles Kids Museum, the Food Bank of Central and Eastern NC, and Learning Together.

Each organization recently received a $20,000 paycheck at Cisco’s its inaugural Holiday Giving Gala at the Marbles Kids Museum.

Gina Andersen, CR Manager, Steve Yager, Sallie Edwards-Marbles CEO; Emily Bruce, VP Development at Marbles Kids Museum. Photo: Jonathan McIntyre(autumnblazephotography.com)

“Positively impacting people, society and the planet is foundational to Cisco’s culture,” Kirsten Weeks, its director of Community Relations, told WRAL TechWire.

“This year’s Gala was an opportunity to build on a long tradition.”

It’s one of many initiatives as highlighted in Cisco’s latest Corporate Social Responsibility Report.

“Cisco’s purpose is to build bridges between hope and possibility,” Weeks aded.

Gina Andersen, Steve Yager, Kathy Peterson-Executive Director of Learning Together, Kyle Reese- Board Member, Fain Barker- Board Member. Photo: Jonathan McIntyre(autumnblazephotography.com)

(From Left) Greg Bromberger, VP of Treasury; Christian Bigsby, VP of WPR (Workplace Resources), Nancy Galligan- Sr. Director- Customer Insights and Action, Steve Yager, VP of Customer Experience. Photo: Jonathan McIntyre(autumnblazephotography.com)

“We have always understood that there is a clear connection between a healthy business and a healthy community. We are committed to driving positive impact in the Triangle and in all communities where our employees work and live.”

On the eve of its 35th anniversary, Cisco has also had a big year on the corporate front.

Its CEO Chuck Robbins, the UNC-CH graduate who replaced John Chambers four years ago, reshuffled several managers and restructured some of its business units earlier this year.

Cisco confirmed the changes, noting the moves “will better align our development process with our customer’s needs.”