For General Manager Terri Sirmans, working at Holiday Inn Express Bellingham isn’t just a job – it’s a way to give back to the Whatcom County community. Throughout the year, Terri works hard donating, connecting with initiatives and sponsoring community-driven programs.
She and her staff are celebrating their second year contributing to Costco Wholesale’s Jumbo Balloon Program. This initiative raises funds to support Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, which provide healthcare to children and families in need. “I really think the Children’s Miracle Network is fantastic,” Terri says. “After donating to the program last year, it was a no-brainer we would participate again.”
Participating businesses buy a six-foot jumbo balloon for $1,000 which hangs in the Costco warehouse for the month of May. These cheery balloons brighten the aisles of Costco, raise awareness of participating businesses and the Children’s Miracle Network, and enrich the lives of those in need. All proceeds from the Jumbo Balloon Program are donated to Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and Costco ensures that the money is used locally. The Holiday Inn Express donation will go to Seattle Children’s Hospital, directly benefiting Whatcom County families whose children receive treatment there.
Terri still recalls the pride she felt when she saw her hotel’s name in the rafters at Costco. “It’s goodwill work,” Terri says. “We are doing a lot right now and want to be recognized as a force in the community. We give back.” Holiday Inn Express Bellingham makes it a priority to help the community in whatever ways they can. This was an especially powerful way to give back and is just one of the hotel’s many charitable initiatives.
Holiday Inn Express’ community involvement is expansive and diverse. Terri and her team offer free stays for cancer patients and sponsor the Bellingham Bells, whose opposing teams even stay at Holiday Inn Express. The hotel also donates used furniture, beds and appliances to Love INC of Whatcom County.
Based out of Lynden, Love INC provides used furniture to families in need – an important service that can make all the difference. Terri makes sure to call the organization whenever the hotel begins renovations. She likes to see these items put to good use. And by using Love INC, Terri ensures these contributions stay within Whatcom County. “I just love to see when we are able to do good,” Terri says. “To know we are making Whatcom County families’ lives a little easier – because of that furniture or that bed we donated – is huge.”
In collaboration with the American Cancer Society, Holiday Inn Express donates rooms to individuals travelling from out of town to receive cancer treatment at PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center. Cancer treatment costs can be overwhelming and many don’t realize that this cost extends well beyond actual treatment. Securing a place to stay while receiving treatment can be difficult, stressful and extremely cost-prohibitive. Having a calm, clean, relaxing environment in which to recuperate can make all the difference. And having this sanctuary provided free of charge can greatly ease their financial burden and related stress. This is just another example of Holiday Inn Express Bellingham’s commitment to help. “If I have an empty room, why not let someone in need stay here?” Terri says. Holiday Inn Express is known for this kind of generosity.
Terri enjoys collaborating with organizations that share Holiday Inn Express’ charitable ideals and community values. She looks for win-win solutions and partnerships that will enhance the community. This is one reason Costco’s Jumbo Balloon Program is such a good fit for the hotel; it offers the chance to partner with another local business for the benefit of all.
Terri wants to challenge other local businesses to put up balloons, as well. The Children’s Miracle Network is a great cause that benefits so many. As the Costco rafters fill with balloons, our local businesses can make a very real difference – one that will uplift the community for years to come.
Sponsored
