Companies Invest in Their Communities
Companies involved in the flexible packaging industry participate in their communities and provide services beyond their business models. Here is a look at some of those efforts at companies that are members of the Flexible Packaging Association (FPA).
Novolex employees contribute to a better tomorrow
One of Novolex’s core values is “Make Tomorrow Better.” The company invests in the communities where it is located, empowering employees to support the causes that matter to them and their families. For example, a Month of Action (MOA) is focused on encouraging, celebrating, and rewarding employees who team up to support a cause in their communities. In 2025, MOA engaged 3,329 participants across 86 events and donated 152,842 pounds of food to communities. The company also matches employee donations to qualifying nonprofits—a formal policy guides eligibility and submission procedures to ensure compliance and fairness. And a grant program allows employees to submit applications on behalf of nonprofits they are passionate about. Approved submissions receive a donation from the company to support the nonprofit’s mission and impact. In addition, Novolex facilitates the donation of unused or surplus company products to local communities and organizations in need.
Pictured above: Novolex encourages workers to participate in community events and causes through several programs, including a Month of Action.
SmartSolve spreads good deeds
SmartSolve’s charitable initiatives include various community causes and two global efforts. CEO Jonathan Jakubowski is the founder of Champions in Action, a nonprofit committed to giving at-risk youth a safe environment to grow, learn, and live together. Through mentorship, the Gospel, and soccer, young people are empowered to break free from the cycles of poverty and violence that dominate their communities. Champions is launching a third site in Guatemala, adding more than 20 soccer teams to the cause. In addition, Affirm India promotes and distributes SmartSolve’s innovative water-soluble materials across the Indian subcontinent. Affirm is a mission-driven organization dedicated to creating meaningful jobs for people often excluded from traditional employment—survivors of human trafficking, individuals affected by leprosy, and others facing systemic hardship. Many of those who are helped are women from marginalized communities. They receive hands-on training in manufacturing, packaging, and quality control. Oftentimes, this is their first formal job—bringing dignity, independence, and economic stability to their families.
Above and Beyond wants your news. Please send us information about how your company is giving back to your communities—charitable events, community drives, and other initiatives. We also would like to report when someone is hired or promoted to a senior position. Email Thomas Barstow, senior editor, at [email protected] and [email protected].
