STATEMENT BY TOM AND CINDY SECUNDA TO “THE GIVING PLEDGE”
June 2011

We are pleased to lend our names and philanthropic commitment to The Giving Pledge campaign. We have been extraordinarily blessed in life, and like the others who are participating in this effort, believe very strongly in giving back to the country, communities and causes that have been vital to shaping our lives and success.

We believe philanthropy is primarily a private matter, but understand that our actions set a public example. We believe philanthropy is a family affair and we often include our two daughters in the decision-making. We believe philanthropy is about gifts big and small to causes that truly make a difference. We believe it is as important to serve as it is to give—we usually join the groups or boards that benefit from our philanthropy.

We are still young and we are still forming our overall goals for our philanthropic commitment. So far, we have supported organizations that focus on National Parks, local parks, conservation, healthcare and Jewish causes. But we look forward to expanding into new areas in the coming years.

We’d like to thank Mike Bloomberg who has been a valued business partner and friend for being an every-day model of philanthropy for us. And we’d also like to thank Warren Buffett and Bill and Melinda Gates for their leadership on The Giving Pledge.

We’re honored to be in such great company and we pledge to do our small part to make the world a better place for our children and grandchildren.