Bainbridge Self Storage of Bainbridge Island, WA, Wins Philanthropy Award

Facility managers of Bainbridge Self Storage in Bainbridge Island, Wash., were recognized on Sept. 15 with the “Outstanding Philanthropic Company” award from the Bainbridge Community Foundation (BCF). Manager Janice Danielson and assistant manager Isabelle Roxy Cobb, who regularly use their connections and company resources to support animal welfare and low-income families, received the honor during the 2017 Inspiring People Philanthropy Awards, which celebrate local giving. Their year-round efforts include the collection of coats and schools supplies, and food drives for people and shelter pets, according to the source.

“If you can, why wouldn’t you? You got to do something,” said Danielson. “Why not be helpful?”

BCF created a video about the award recipients, which included comments from community members about Danielson’s labors. “Janice helps people. She really improves things here on Bainbridge Island,” said Diana George, executive director of PAWS of Bainbridge Island and North Kitsap, a nonprofit animal-welfare organization. George has worked with Danielson on several pet-food drives.

Danielson’s role as a self-storage manager gives her the opportunity to “render help and aid, or direct resources that may be able to help those individuals,” said Matt Hamner, chief of police for the Bainbridge Island Police Department. “Her passion is having compassion for individuals.”

Additional honorees included Bob and Judy Karr as “Outstanding Bainbridge Philanthropists,” and Sophia Doane, winner of the “Outstanding Young Philanthropist” award. Recipients were chosen by the BCF Board of Trustees and staff based on their acts of generosity and volunteerism, according to the organization’s website.

“These individuals and businesses personify the spirit of selflessness and generosity that makes the Bainbridge Island community what it is,” said Jim Hopper, executive director of BCF. “They lead by example and have done so many great things for others.”

BCF aims to improve the quality of life for Bainbridge Island residents by inspiring community members to engage through volunteering and philanthropic support. The foundation connects donors and charities, and funds grants to dozens of local nonprofits each year, the website stated.

Bainbridge Self Storage is owned by Urban Self Storage Inc., which was founded in 1987. The company operates more than 65 facilities in Arizona, New Mexico, Oregon and Washington.