Horizon Convention Center was awarded Corporate Social Responsibility 2012 Meeting Place of the Year from the Indiana Chapter of Meeting Professionals International (IMPI) at their annual meeting in June.

The award was received by Joann McKinney, Horizon Convention Center President/CEO based on the criteria that HCC has shown corporate responsibility in its meetings, conferences and events, as well as demonstrated protecting and enhancing people, profit and the planet with the community and organizations benefitting from its efforts.

In the past few years, Horizon Convention Center has held an event “Priceless Rummage.” Employees are encouraged to bring in items they no longer use to display in a building-wide free “sale.” Employees are also encouraged to come and browse for any items they may want to put to good use. The event doesn’t cost any money. The remaining items are given to a local charity for use.

The rummage sale was inspired by Toys for Tots initiative because the organization collects and gives away new and even used toys. HCC does not look to make a profit or benefit directly from this event in anyway. The main goal is to provide an opportunity to repurpose items that are no longer wanted by some and giving them to others who may need or want them.

This event impacts not only the community, but the environment as well. The community benefits from the re-gifting because being so close to the holiday season, things such as children’s toys are popular and an event such as this can really lend a helping hand. Since the remaining items are donated to a local charity, the planet benefits as well because this is the ultimate recycling event. Each item is put to good use, as opposed to decaying in a landfill, a warehouse or someone’s attic.