GreatAmerica’s commitment to community involvement is central to its identity. As the company continues to grow, it remains steadfast in its dedication to supporting the communities where its employees live and work, creating lasting, positive change for all.
A History of Community Commitment
GreatAmerica’s dedication to community involvement is deeply embedded in its culture and operations. Founded in Cedar Rapids, IA, in 1992, GreatAmerica has grown into the largest family-owned national commercial equipment finance company in the U.S. With a portfolio exceeding $3 billion and over $16.9 billion in life-to-date finance originations, the company serves manufacturers, distributors, resellers and franchisees. Beyond business success, GreatAmerica is dedicated to enriching the communities where its employees live and work.
Since its founding, GreatAmerica has prioritized giving back through time, talent and treasure. Its GreatAmerica Gives Back initiative has donated over $10 million to local nonprofits, with employees contributing thousands of volunteer hours to causes such as education, health, social services, the environment and culture. The Donor Advised Fund, established in 2001, has awarded hundreds of grants, contributing more than $600,000 to over 40 nonprofits in the past year alone. Additionally, the Employee Advised Fund, launched in 2022, empowers employees to direct donations to causes meaningful to them, awarding $500,000 to 29 local nonprofits last year.
Empowering Employees to Give Back
To encourage employee engagement, GreatAmerica introduced Volunteer Paid Time Off in 2023. This program matches paid volunteer hours with employee-contributed time, fostering active participation in community service. In 2024, over 250 employees contributed more than 1,000 hours to efforts such as packing meals for Meals from the Heartland, building beds for Sleep in Heavenly Peace, and planting trees with Trees Forever. Employees also participated in events like the United Way Day of Caring and Junior Achievement’s Financial Literacy simulation, reflecting the company’s commitment to impactful service.
GreatAmerica tracks the success of its organized initiatives through key metrics, such as grant amounts and volunteer hours. In 2023, 82 employees volunteered 404 hours, which grew to over 250 employees contributing more than 1,000 hours in 2024. This growth highlights the expanding scope of the company’s efforts and its dedication to creating positive change. Employees are offered a variety of opportunities to volunteer, from lunch-hour sessions to large-scale community projects, supported by programs like the previously mentioned Employee Advised Fund, which gives employees a personal stake in philanthropy.
Leadership plays a pivotal role in driving GreatAmerica’s community initiatives. Executive Chairman Tony Golobic and CEO Martin Golobic actively support programs like the United Way Campaign, where the Golobic family provided a match to employee donations. GreatAmerica leaders also serve on nonprofit boards and guide the company’s philanthropic endeavors. This hands-on leadership reflects GreatAmerica’s commitment to taking care of employees, customers, and the community.
Expanding its Impact
GreatAmerica’s efforts extend beyond its own organization, collaborating with the Iowa Council of Foundations and the United Way Workplace Volunteer Council to promote regional volunteerism. By serving on the steering committee and partnering with other Eastern Iowa businesses, the company helps coordinate impactful community efforts. GreatAmerica also shares its successes and best practices through social media, inspiring others to embrace service.
Education is another cornerstone of GreatAmerica’s community impact. The company serves on college boards, supports local educational institutions and integrates volunteerism into its Summer Internship Program, reflecting its dedication to developing future leaders. By leveraging its industry position, GreatAmerica addresses social challenges innovatively, coordinating giving efforts across the state and supporting causes that align with its values.
Looking ahead, GreatAmerica plans to expand its philanthropic efforts. Enhancements to the Employee Advised Fund, Donor Advised Fund and volunteer programs aim to increase employee participation and support more nonprofits. These initiatives underscore the company’s enduring commitment to its communities.
