Firm's charity work boosts morale, helps community

PROVO — For about five years, Employer Solutions Group has had a Giving Back program to support worthy causes and to empower its employees to make a difference in the lives of others, said spokeswoman Nancy Pomeroy.

One such project that began in April and concludes in June involves employees making baby and children's blankets for the Linus Project (named after the character in the "Peanuts" cartoon who carries a blanket everywhere with him).

Employees work at home or on a quilting frame in the company lunchroom to keep the project going.

So far they have made about 60 blankets, which are destined for local hospitals and social services to comfort children affected by illness or family trauma.

Upcoming projects include supporting the Special Olympics, American Red Cross Blood Drive, Children's Book Drive, Career Education Seminar, Thanksgiving meals, handmade Christmas cards and Sub for Santa.

ESG employs 50 workers in Provo and six in Loveland, Colo. The business recently moved into a new building at 4844 N. 300 West and celebrated 10 years of business.

The professional employer organization works under the "economies of scale." The company pools businesses to create products and services that generally are available only to large corporations. In 2005 and 2006 Utah Business Magazine recognized ESG as one of Utah's best places to work. As of 2005 its annual sales volume was $150 million.

"I wouldn't want to work anywhere else," said employee Sheralyn Romrell, who is coordinating the Linus Project. "It's rare when you have a job that fulfills both mind and heart."