KENNEWICK, Wash. – Columbia Industries (CI), a mission-based organization committed to supporting and empowering individuals with disabilities and other challenges, unveiled an original song and music video to highlight its services and unique organizational structure at its Evening of Miracles fundraising gala on October 20, 2022. More than 230 guests attended CI’s fifth annual Evening of Miracles, where over $125,000 was raised to support CI’s mission programs. Cornerstone Wealth Strategies served as the event’s Champion Level Sponsor.
“Thanks to the generosity of our community, Columbia Industries is changing lives by providing opportunities for independent living through empowerment and employment services,” said Michael Novakovich, President and CEO of Columbia Industries. “We are also providing life enriching opportunities for many individuals who might otherwise live in insolation or without social opportunities or the ability to enjoy the richness of our community.”
During the gala, CI unveiled the “CI Shuffle,” an original song and music video featuring the CI team, along with many of their clients, hustling and shuffling to build a more inclusive community as they work with a diverse population of Tri-Citians to advance accessibility, break down employment barriers, enhance social enrichment and foster equity in our community.
As a social enterprise, CI is focused on the social wellbeing of the Tri-Cities while also operating four for-profit business that help fund the agency’s five non-profit mission services. These businesses include all four area Round Table Pizza restaurants, Paradise Bottled Water, CI Information Management (Shred) and CI Express. Community support and investment are also a critical component that aids the agency in new program development and program expansion to address the growing needs of the Tri-Cities. One of the final lyrics of the song encourages viewers to “partner with us.” Partnering includes clients accessing CI’s services, the creation of employment opportunities for CI’s clients through business partnerships, corporate and individual philanthropy to support programs, as well as community partnerships and collaborative endeavors to build new programs for individuals with disabilities and other challenges.
“Music is a language that resonates with people from all walks of life and all capabilities,” Novakovich said. “We know our clients will love being stars in our music video. We encourage community members to share our message to create awareness of our services that support, empower, and help individuals with a variety of life challenges achieve personal success and community engagement. Together, we are building an incredible community for all of us to enjoy. Shuffle with us!”
View the video on CI’s Youtube or Facebook.
