Most of us are likely aware of what Granite Telecommunications offers. This communications and technology solutions provider (with $1.85 billion in revenue) serves businesses and government agencies across the U.S. and Canada. The company, founded in 2002, manages 1.75 million voice and data lines for over 650,000 locations, including more than two-thirds of Fortune 100 companies.
Granite simplifies sourcing and management of voice, data and cellular services by offering a single point of contact and consolidated billing for customers nationwide. The company’s services include access, UCaaS, mobile voice and data and MSP solutions for SD-WAN, monitoring and network management.
What some may not be familiar with are Granite's charitable efforts. Granite's "Saving by Shaving" event, for example, draws an outpouring of support from local leaders, celebrities, athletes and Granite employees, all united for a common cause. The event, which began 11 years ago with a playful challenge from CEO Rob Hale, has become a significant movement. Hale dared a team member to shave their ZZ Top-style beard in exchange for a donation to a nearby cancer hospital.
Since its inception, over 10,000 individuals have participated, including prominent figures like sports icons Tom Brady, Bill Belichick, David Ortiz and Drew Brees, as well as former Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker. The event's fundraising focus on children's health continues to garner widespread support.
Now, in its 11th year, the “Saving by Shaving” event set new benchmarks in its ongoing commitment to support pediatric research and treatments at Boston Children’s Hospital. This year's event amassed $3.5 million and elevated the 11-year cumulative total to $55 million, highlighting the company and community's collective spirit in aiding those in need.
“The passion and generosity of our community continue to amaze me,” said Rob Hale, president and CEO of Granite. “Every year, we come together with the goal of making a difference; and every year, we surpass our wildest expectations. This isn't just about shaving heads; it's about showing up for those in need and embodying the spirit of giving."
More than 700 Granite team members were joined by a coalition of local leaders, celebrities and athletes at the company's headquarters in Quincy, Massachusetts, for this year's event. Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey, personalities from the Boston Celtics including coach Joe Mazzulla, guard Jrue Holiday and front office leaders Brad Stevens and Allison Feaster, were joined by New England Patriots legends Joe Andruzzi and Matt Light. Quincy Mayor Thomas Koch and Kevin Churchwell, president and CEO of Boston Children's Hospital, also participated.
Granite donated $2,500 for each participant, matched by the Hale family, resulting in a $5,000 contribution to The Every Child Fund at Boston Children's Hospital for each participant. These funds support Granite's ongoing commitment to pediatric research and treatments at the hospital, benefiting future generations of children.
“The unwavering support from Granite Telecommunications and the entire community through the 'Saving by Shaving' event is truly inspirational,” said Churchwell. “The funds raised play a crucial role in our ongoing research and treatment efforts, bringing hope and healing not just to our community, but to children and their families everywhere.”
Edited by
Alex Passett
