Holland America Line Wins Top United Way Award for Philanthropy

 Sparkies Award recognizes company’s volunteerism and donations

Seattle, Wash., March 31, 2015 — At a March 5 reception at the Seattle Waterfront Marriott, Holland America Line was presented with a Sparkie Award by the United Way of King County, Washington. The Sparkie Awards recognize organizations that make a difference locally through enthusiastic and innovative community work.

Holland America Line won the Sparkies’ Live United Award for increasing donations during the company’s annual United Way campaign and for rewarding employee volunteers who give at least 30 hours of service by donating to their nonprofit of choice.

“Volunteerism and philanthropy are important to Holland America Line, and it’s rewarding to be recognized by the United Way of King County for our efforts,” said Orlando Ashford, president of Holland America Line. “This Sparkie Award will be shared with all of our employees who were an integral part of earning this recognition.”

Holland America Line encourages participation in the United Way campaign through payroll donations and company matching, drawings, barbecues, food truck events, golf tournaments and joining in volunteerism throughout the year.

“Holland America Line has been a strong and consistent supporter of United Way for years,” said Jon Fine, president and CEO of United Way of King County.  “The organization is a leader in volunteerism, in-kind marketing support of United Way and this year nearly doubled their contributions to the community.  Holland America Line and its employees exemplify what it means to Live United, and we are pleased to recognize them with the Live United Award.”

About the United Way of King County

The mission of the United Way of King County is to bring caring people together to give, volunteer and take action to help people in need and solve the community’s toughest challenges — such as homelessness, helping families meet their basic needs and ensuring children are prepared for a lifetime of achievement.

Holland America Line Community Support

Each year Holland America Line hosts more than 25 shipboard charity luncheons for nearly 5,000 guests in its home port cities. In addition, Holland America Line and its corporate foundation’s charitable-giving programs provide cash sponsorships, in-kind donations, free- and reduced-fare cruise donations for nonprofit fundraising events, donations of usable shipboard items around the world, employee volunteerism and other philanthropic activities.