City of Hope is one of the largest and most advanced cancer research and treatment organizations in the United States. The Spirit of Life Award is their most prestigious honor, presented to an esteemed community of industry leaders around the world who have made a significant commitment to support those in need.
The Home Depot’s Executive Vice President of Merchandising, Billy Bastek, joins a list of distinguished leaders as a Spirit of Life Award honoree for his philanthropic commitments. Today, Bastek shares more about his notable contributions to the community and why this work is so important for him.
When did you first learn about the good work of City of Hope?
I attended my first City of Hope event back in 1998 when the gala was held in Chicago as part of the Hardware Show. At that time, you had many of the Titans from our industry gather to support City of Hope and speak about the work being done by the teams. Over the years of supporting City of Hope, I’ve seen and heard the amazing impact they have been making in many areas of research and development.
Who specifically told you that you would follow in the footsteps of so many memorable industry leaders, and what was your initial response?
I had a couple conversations with Kevin Courtney whom I’ve known for several years who’s been on staff post-retirement from our industry. I was incredibly humbled by the opportunity to follow in so many past honorees whom I’ve known and admired throughout my career. And especially humbled to follow in the footsteps of The Home Depot prior leaders who have also been past honorees including our founders, Bernie and Arthur who really led the charge, with others to adopt the City of Hope as our industries collective mission.
Home Depot is involved in so many charitable efforts -- which of them hits you on a personal level with the most force?
Yes, that’s correct, we are thrilled to be involved with so many organizations both at a corporate and local levels. The work our Foundation supports around Veterans is incredible and makes a really big impact on multiple levels. Ensuring safe, affordable housing for our nation's homeless population and combat-wounded veterans is something we can all rally around. While our financial commitment has been well documented, it’s our associates and supplier partners sweat equity in the communities that really stand out!
What's your view of the role of philanthropy in Corporate America (or even mom-and-pop-business America)?
Giving back has always been part of the DNA of our company, in fact, it is one of the eight core values that our associates wear on their aprons every day. The home improvement industry was created to help improve their living spaces but by participating in events like this and through The Home Depot Foundation, we have the ability to help improve lives in even bigger ways by giving back to our communities that we serve in every day.
Any Final thoughts on the fight against cancer?
Cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide. National statistics show 1:3 women and 1:2 men will get cancer in their lifetime. By 2040 the number of new cancer cases will increase by 30 million people. I couldn't be more proud to support research organizations like City of Hope, whose goal is making hope a reality for those who are fighting this disease.
