TQL And Buddy Walk Make Meaningful Strides
TQL employee Jason M. says it’s hard to pick only one favorite thing about his daughter, Lyla Mae, but says that her enthusiasm lights up a room.
“No matter how rough of a day we are having, when Lyla Mae smiles and laughs she puts everything back into perspective,” he said. “Her happiness is genuine and infectious.”
In 2012, Lyla Mae was born with Down syndrome. Jason says he and his wife Megan had no experience with the congenital disorder before their daughter was born.
“Like many families, we weren’t aware of her diagnosis until birth so we were quickly overwhelmed with uncertainty and all sorts of emotions.”
He says the Down Syndrome Association of Cincinnati was there to help them through that initial roller coaster, like they do so many other families.
“The DSAGC has been successful enhancing the entire tristate community by embracing inclusion and supporting individuals and families with Down syndrome,” Jason said.
Since Lyla Mae’s first year, Jason has made it a priority to support the DSAGC by being involved with the Buddy Walk.
“It takes a lot of resources to make an impact, so it’s critical to support the Buddy Walk so the DSAGC can continue doing amazing things.”
TQL Corporate Giving Specialist Corey D. agrees.
“The Buddy Walk is one of the largest sustained walks in Cincinnati,” she said. “And it’s important for us to show support to an organization that has worked for so long to make our community a better place.”
Four teams from TQL are participating in this year’s walk, including Team Manuel’s Cupcake’s Crew (Lyla Mae’s nickname) which surpassed its initial $1,000 fundraising goal in just a couple of hours.
TQL has supported the DSAGC for three years and is contributing $10,000 in 2015 by sponsoring the Buddy Walk. Corey says TQL local and national offices are encouraged to participate in their local Buddy Walks.
“When our employees are tied to a cause in such a personal way, there’s an even larger incentive for us to support the organization.”