Pete Jackson is an affiliate of the Signworld Business Partners alliance, as owner-operator of Sign Distinction in San Diego, California. Jackson, a U.S. Army veteran who knows of many people who sacrificed greatly during the time they served, always wanted to give back out of obligation to his peers. By Nancy E. Williams
Pete Jackson is an affiliate of the Signworld Business Partners alliance, as owner-operator of Sign Distinction in San Diego, California. Jackson, a U.S. Army veteran who knows of many people who sacrificed greatly during the time they served, always wanted to give back out of obligation to his peers.
After joining his local Rotary club, Jackson met a fellow member who spoke highly about his involvement in a nonprofit organization, Team Red, White & Blue, which transforms the way wounded veterans transition back into society when they return from combat. Team RWB started in a few cities and quickly grew to 200,000 members across the country. Every time a new chapter opens, Jackson supplies the organization with signs, fulfilling his desire to give back while promoting his brand.
“This was a win-win situation because everyone needs signs, and it’s an easy way to get your name out there,” said Jackson. Community service brings people together, creating more connections that can lead to new clients. As a result of being a Rotarian, Sign Distinction acquired 10 clients. Each client becomes either a repeat and/or referral customer.
Because the spirit of giving is part of Jackson’s DNA, it’s something that he does often. When Sign Distinction approached its 10th anniversary, Jackson wanted to celebrate by giving back in a big way. He created the 10th Anniversary Giving Campaign and highlighted a different charity every month, asking others to do at least one of three things: donate, learn, or share the organization with others to spread the word. Throughout the campaign, Jackson worked with Team RWB, The ALS Association, Active Valor, The V Foundation, and the Wounded Warrior Project.
During one of the campaign months, Sign Distinction worked with the USS Midway Museum, a military museum that supports veteran activities, and raised close to $8,000. “The fundraising activity had a snowball effect,” said Jackson. “So many people got involved just by talking about these programs. This affirms the big value giving back has; you gain credibility in the community while doing it. There is so much to enjoy in the process. You meet people who are also trying to do good – people who care about more than just themselves.”
Jackson evolved from being concerned that giving back would take up all his time to now being involved in over 10 different charities. “My business is making a big difference in people’s lives, and that’s why I do this. This is my chance to give back through signage,” he said.
Jackson’s advice to those who want to do good and become involved in the community: “Find your passion. Reach out to a local chapter that supports that passion. You must recognize that giving back does not take up too much of your time. Once you realize this, you can join a Rotary club or some sort of service organization. You realize that it’s enjoyable and genuinely feels good. Who knows, these people just may become your customers,” he said.
Jackson plans to stay involved with these organizations in the future.
Nancy E. Williams
Contact: signworld.org