PMI U.S. Launches 'Thanks for Giving' Campaign to Celebrate Community Service in Kentucky

PMI U.S. Launches 'Thanks for Giving' Campaign in Kentucky

In a heartfelt initiative, Philip Morris International's U.S. businesses, known as PMI U.S., have announced the launch of a campaign dubbed "Thanks for Giving". This effort seeks to inspire Kentuckians to acknowledge and support the remarkable contributions made by individuals and organizations within their communities during this season of gratitude.

The campaign serves as a vibrant reminder of the generosity and spirit of service that define Kentucky. As Thanksgiving approaches and aligns with #GivingTuesday, PMI U.S. is shining a spotlight on the hardworking volunteers and local nonprofits dedicated to enhancing community welfare.

Marian Salzman, the Senior Vice President of PMI U.S. and a pioneer behind the concept of GivingTuesday in 2012, underscored the essence of this campaign. She stated, "#GivingTuesday started as a single day of goodwill, but what truly matters is embedding generosity into our daily lives and prioritizing accountability in our interactions. At PMI U.S., this spirit transcends just a holiday season. Since 2022, we've committed more than $35 million to various community programs, witnessing a staggering 400 percent increase in employee participation. Expressing gratitude is potent; however, living it day in and day out, coupled with transparency and intention, is even more impactful."

Over the past two years, PMI U.S. has allocated approximately $1,545,000 to support 88 organizations throughout Kentucky that are committed to uplifting local communities. This includes over $452,000 directed towards initiatives for veterans and military personnel, more than $1,000,000 designated for economic empowerment programs, and $65,000 to assist in disaster relief and prevention. Such contributions empower organizations to drive significant community-level transformations.

One noteworthy example of PMI U.S.'s community engagement is their collaboration with Lady Veterans Connect, initiated in 2023. Phyllis Abbott, Executive Director at Lady Veterans Connect, expressed gratitude for the support received, which allowed them to hire essential staffing and reach more women veterans through their programs, thus creating safe spaces that foster connection and hope.

Furthermore, Harry E. Pedigo, Executive Director of the Daniel Pitino Shelter, emphasized the vital role PMI U.S. plays in enhancing their capacity to care for those in need. His organization, deeply embedded in the Owensboro community, benefits immensely from PMI U.S.’s partnership, which aims to facilitate pathways to stability for individuals and families.

The “Thanks for Giving” campaign also highlights the WeCare program, where PMI U.S. employees actively nominate nonprofits for company-sponsored donations. In 2025 alone, WeCare has funneled over $1,860,000 to approximately 400 local organizations across 44 states and Washington, D.C., with several benefiting in Kentucky.

For instance, Jeff Day, a stockroom attendant at PMI U.S. in Kentucky, successfully gained support for Boulware Mission— a century-old program dedicated to aiding men dealing with homelessness and mental health challenges. Thanks to PMI U.S. employees, Boulware Mission received over $200,000 in funding, which will significantly enhance their service capacities and help many reclaim their lives.

This initiative is just one element of PMI U.S.'s dedication to pragmatic philanthropy, a strategy built on genuine listening, impactful investments, and fostering collaborations with those actively engaged in meaningful work. Interested readers can learn more about PMI U.S.'s philanthropic vision and its contributions.

PMI U.S. is firmly invested in America, committed to creating a smoke-free future and providing better alternatives for roughly 30 million legal-age consumers who currently smoke. Operating out of locations nationwide—including a significant manufacturing facility in Owensboro, Kentucky—PMI U.S. employs over 3,000 individuals while driving innovation and support for community welfare across the country.