Davis Memorial Foundation
The Importance of Giving Back in Marketing
by Heidi J. Ellsworth, Owner, HJE Consulting
(Editor’s Note: Heidi J. Ellsworth, a graduate of the University of Portland, has been working in the roofing industry since 1993. Having held positions with EagleView® Technology Corporation, Carlisle® Construction Materials, Eco-Star™, and Malarkey Roofing Products®, Ellsworth is now the founder of the roofing-focused marketing firm, HJE Consulting Group. She is also the author of “Sales and Marketing for Roofing Contractors,” a guide for small businesses in the roofing industry.)
In today’s competitive business landscape, companies are increasingly recognizing that success is not solely measured by profits or market share. An equally important measure of success is the ability to give back to the community, particularly in ways that align with a company’s core values and industry. In the roofing industry, the Davis Memorial Foundation serves as a shining example of how giving back can not only fulfill a moral obligation but also become a strategic component of effective marketing. The foundation has supported education through yearly scholarships for students attending college and vocational schools. Now they are also supporting the future of the industry with grants for SkillsUSA® competitors.
A Legacy of Education & Support
The Davis Memorial Foundation was established in 1997 following the tragic deaths of Larry and Mary Davis, two figures who were deeply committed to the roofing industry. Larry Davis, the founder of State Roofing Company in Modesto, California, was a passionate advocate for the professional development of roofing contractors. He believed that education was the key to ensuring the long-term success and professionalism of the industry. Serving on the WSRCA board of directors and several committees, Larry was dedicated to raising industry standards through education and training. His wife, Mary, shared his commitment, often accompanying him to meetings and industry events.
Unfortunately, their lives were cut short in a plane crash in 1995 while returning from a WSRCA committee meeting. To honor their memory and continue their legacy, the Davis Memorial Foundation was founded with a clear mission: to support education, particularly as it relates to the development of a well-educated construction industry. Since its incorporation in 1997, Davis has awarded over 170 scholarships, totaling more than $750,000.
Celebrating 25 Years of Impact
In 2024, Western States Roofing Contractors Association (WSRCA) will celebrate a significant milestone: its 50th anniversary. The anniversary will be marked by several key events, including the awarding of ten scholarships to deserving students. These scholarships represent more than just financial assistance; they are a testament to Davis’ commitment to nurturing the next generation of industry leaders.
The Role of Community Engagement in Marketing
The Davis Memorial Foundation’s success is a powerful example of how giving back can enhance a brand’s reputation and foster a sense of community. In today’s marketing landscape, consumers and industry professionals alike are increasingly drawn to companies and organizations that demonstrate a genuine commitment to social responsibility. Being involved and participating with a foundation like Davis creates opportunities for industry professionals to connect in meaningful ways.
Events like the golf and shooting tournaments, along with the live and silent auctions, serve as more than just fundraisers. They are platforms for building relationships, strengthening industry bonds, and promoting a sense of shared purpose. The sense of camaraderie and shared mission that these events foster is invaluable.
For those interested in contributing to the Davis Memorial Foundation there are many ways to be involved including donating and/or participating in auction and sporting events. There is also a Name Your Scholarship opportunity that can memorialize your company and help create opportunity for future professionals. As Chuck Chapman, a Davis trustee, aptly put it, “It really is a lot of fun, and it’s very rewarding.” This sentiment captures the essence of what makes the Davis Memorial Foundation so special: the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of students and the future of the roofing industry.
The Davis Memorial Foundation’s impact over the years is a powerful reminder of the importance of giving back. By aligning its mission with the values of the roofing industry, Davis has not only supported countless students but also created a lasting legacy that will continue to benefit the industry for years to come. As we celebrate WSRCA’s 50-year milestone, we acknowledge the profound difference that giving back can make. As a Davis trustee, I encourage all roofing professionals and companies to get involved. It is one of the best marketing strategies around.
