In 1916, young William Edward Boeing built and flew his first aircraft, Bluebell, in Seattle, and the Boeing Airplane Company—and a valued community partner—was born. Ever since its first charitable contribution in 1917—a University of Washington wind tunnel that’s still in use today—the industry leader has been giving back locally, regionally and globally.
Boeing’s community engagement projects benefit diverse people around the world. From helping South African farmers develop sustainable aviation biofuel, to teaching locals to monitor the health of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, Boeing makes a difference. “Boeing’s partnerships and sponsorships are made to promote sustainable growth and lasting system change in the communities where our employees and their families live and work,” says Sam Whiting, Boeing’s director of corporate citizenship, Northwest region.
One of the local annual events the company sponsors is Seafair, a 10-week summer festival in Seattle that draws approximately 2 million people each year. “Seafair simply couldn’t happen without Boeing,” says Richard Andersen, Seafair’s president and CEO. Boeing’s humility consistently impresses Andersen. “They’re never out front waving the flag, saying how great they are. They do so many things behind the scenes to make the greater Seattle area what it is. They truly care.” boeing.com