The FedEx United Way connection

Hello - my name is Ben Walters and I'm glad to be representing FedEx at this ASB event. I work for (ironically) FedEx Services, more directly in the automation division. United Way is a huge part of how FedEx likes to give back to the communities we work in - although this will be my first hands on contribution since my days at Hope College. It's a sign of things to come though - as Habitat for Humanity has started building a home in my city of Marshall MI and I hope to contribute to that project as well.

I identify with the things happening in Detroit - as the effects ripple out to everyone's neighborhoods. We can all watch the news and see what's happening in Detroit - number 1 on lists for job loss, home foreclosure, and bad roads - but we sometimes miss the ripple effect from the big three automakers. Three of the largest job providers in my area have closed due to consolidation in the auto manufacturing industry. Less people working means less people are buying things and less jobs. It's a viscious cycle that slowly reaches out all over the country - and I have to say that I'm lucky enough to be able to give back some of the great fortune that I'm blessed with.

Thanks everyone - and I'll see you Friday.