A “one size fits all” strategy is not effective when it comes to philanthropy and fundraising in today’s environment. We believe strong community relations and corporate philanthropy efforts should be a key component in any company’s overall business strategy, and these efforts should continually adapt to the changing needs of the communities in which our employees and customers live and work. The biggest challenge to philanthropy can be identified in answering the following question: Does our company show genuine care for the people we serve and not just the bottom line?

In answering and exploring this question, Varada Consulting’s philanthropic contributions and community relations are implicitly understood to be both a cost of doing business and a requisite to success. What drives and differentiates our philanthropy efforts from other companies, is the role our CEO plays in providing funding and sponsorships to a variety of local organizations that align with our mission and vision. Tori Draude takes a proactive role in areas where she is uniquely positioned to convey her vision for the future. As an active member of the Advisory Council for STEM for Her, Tori promotes education to create awareness, excitement, and opportunities among girls and young women to launch successful STEM-related careers. She also established a local non-profit, BRAWS: Bringing Resources to Aid Women's Shelters and is a member of Women in Technology, the premier professional association for women in the technology industry.

Through these and many other involvements, Tori’s commitment to philanthropy cascades through the entire organization, adding purpose to the work of her employees and ensuring everyone is informed and prepared to express the value and opportunity of philanthropy.