Galina Zaranchuk didn’t realize the A&B Gives Back program she had contributed to for years at work would one day benefit her family members struggling to survive in war-torn Ukraine.
The $7,850 collected by her A&B Business Solutions colleagues was used to provide war relief in the form of food, medicine and daily needs to several of her aunts, uncles and cousins who, as Zaranchuk said, are “stuck in the middle of destruction.” One of her uncles, a minister, is helping people to evacuate the war zone and find shelter, food and medical supplies. Other relatives are housing refugees. With some of the money from the funds, Zaranchuk was also able to help her sister-in-law come to the United States to stay with her and her family until the war’s end.
“My family’s life turned upside down on February 24,” said Zaranchuk, marketing manager for the company. “We go to sleep not knowing if they will be alive tomorrow. Some of my family live in Kiev and all of my in-laws live in Vinnytsia. Both of these areas are being attacked daily with explosions not far from their homes. They have been living in bomb shelters, scared for their lives.”
Zaranchuk, who has been with A&B Business for nine years, said she never realized her employer’s Gives Back program would identify her family’s struggles as something that should be supported. In the past, contributions have benefited other employees who have found themselves in tough situations and needing help with everything from flooded homes to surgeries.
The company, which has 120 full-time employees, offers a variety of products and services including office equipment, furniture and supplies, IT management, sales and leadership development, document management and more. A&B Business has 14 locations throughout five U.S. states.
“I always considered my life to be great. And then, suddenly, the unexpected happens and my life changed overnight. For me, personally, it’s been overwhelming to know that my colleagues are there for me and my family.
“As an employee, this is more than I could ever ask for and I feel the love and care of A&B in these times when it matters most,” she said. “This is a place I can call my second family. We care about the needs of our team members.”
In addition to the internal fundraising program for its employees, A&B Business has raised in the last eight years more than $200,000 — including $50,177 in 2022 — for the Children’s Home Society of South Dakota through its wildly successful Cleavers Chef Challenge. Each year, renowned chef Tyler Honke and A&B Business owner Dennis Aanenson work with 12 to 14 chefs and various sponsors to create themed gourmet meals. Approximately 250 foodies attend to sample the fare.
“It’s been incredible to see the success of this event growing each year,” Zaranchuk said. “As employees, we are all very proud to say we are a part of this effort to help these children. Not only do we care for each other, but for everyone within our community. It’s just a great atmosphere to work in.”
A&B Business’ Facebook page reflects the camaraderie Zaranchuk describes — monthly employee birthdays, work anniversaries and personal achievements, as well as customers who win regularly hosted product giveaways and prizes.
The vision of A&B Business Solutions is Developing Strong Communities and that is exactly what they strive to do both internal with their employees and external with community around them.