Reading the news often can be depressing. In fact, we probably all know people who purposely avoid the news.

It seems like we can’t escape news about the growing homelessness problem, crime, communities ravaged by drug use and political and international strife. It’s not like covering our eyes and ears will change anything, but tuning some of the news out can provide a temporary respite from feeling overwhelmed.

That’s one reason why I’m always encouraged when I read or pass along news about companies doing their best to uplift the communities in which they operate.  Many companies in the title industry believe part of their corporate responsibility is to give back.

Consider what others are doing to make a difference:

  • Through its recent annual golf outing, Paramus, N.J.-based Town Title Agency raised $100,000 to support the Inserra Diabetes Research Fund and Tackle Kids Cancer at the Children’s Cancer Institute at the Joseph M. Sanzari Children’s Hospital at the Hackensack University Medical Center.
  • Boise, Idaho-based Alliance Title and Escrow Corp. recently held its 8th annual “Closing the Hunger Gap” food drive. The company’s branches throughout Idaho and Montana collected food and monetary donations. Collectively, the branches collected 21,668 pounds of non-perishable food items and $15,670 in monetary donations.
  • Providence, R.I.-based Equity National Title recently celebrated its 30th anniversary by helping homeless children enjoy their own birthday parties with a sizable donation to New England charity Birthday Wishes. Equity National donated 30 “birthday boxes,” which will be used by Birthday Wishes to host birthday parties for homeless children otherwise unable to enjoy the experience. The boxes include items such as cake mix, frosting, cake pans, candles, plates, napkins, balloons, banners, streamers and birthday gifts.

Certainly, I could list many more charitable events. My only point here is to stress that many of us can be proud that we are part of companies which are working to strengthen the safety net for our most vulnerable citizens.