Lab Employees Choose Charities Close to Their Hearts

HNL Lab Medicine just handed the power of giving to the people who know what matters most: their own employees.

The Pennsylvania-based medical laboratory invited its team of over 2,000 employees to nominate charities that personally touched their lives. Five nonprofits received donations this year, each chosen because an employee shared how that organization made a real difference.

Brooke Schleicher, a histotechnician, picked Brindle Buddies & Friends, an animal rescue that helped her own family adopt their beloved pets. The organization finds permanent homes for dogs who need second chances.

Keyli Guardado chose Cay Galgon Life House after the shelter provided her family with housing, food, and clothing during a difficult transition. "They made us feel secure and valued and helped us rebuild our lives," she said.

Michele Wieand nominated the Eastern PA Down Syndrome Center for supporting her family since her son was born. The center connects families with doctors, therapists, and school advocates.

Megan Roth selected the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition to raise awareness about early detection. "Early detection can save lives," she explained.

Kristin Zukasky rounded out the list with The Sanctuary at Haafsville, a no-kill animal shelter where she adopted a new companion after losing her dog. "Adopting again brought comfort and companionship back into my life," she said.

The Ripple Effect

This employee-driven giving program does more than write checks. It strengthens the bond between coworkers who learn each other's stories and creates a workplace culture where personal struggles and triumphs are honored.

The model also ensures donations go to organizations doing grassroots work in local communities rather than distant causes chosen by executives. Each of these five nonprofits serves Pennsylvania families directly.

"By supporting causes that matter deeply to our employees, we're able to extend our mission beyond the lab," said Jessica Bargilione, the company's Chief Marketing Officer.

The 25-year-old laboratory plans to continue this annual tradition, proving that companies can make meaningful community impact by simply listening to their teams.