Column: A letter to Walmart

 Dear Walmart,

As a long-time admirer of the incredible legacy Sam Walton and his brother built from scratch, I have had the pleasure of visiting Bentonville, Arkansas, the birthplace of Walmart. The experience was nothing short of inspiring.  It deepened my appreciation for the values and community spirit that Walmart embodies.

Sam Walton was 44 years old and managing the Ben Franklin 5 & 10 on the public square when one day he came up with the idea to start Walmart. Walking through that old dime store turned museum will make anyone a believer in the American dream. Jay Gatsby might not have achieved it, but Sam Walton certainly did.

Old Sam also shared the wealth with employees by way of stock options and with the people of Bentonville. Just a short walk down a people path from the downtown is a beautiful art museum built with Walton money and the price of admission is “free.”

With Christmas trees and decorations already for sale this year, I am reminded of the festive season’s spirit of giving. One of the initiatives I particularly appreciate is the option to “round up” the bill at self-serve checkouts, with the extra change going to charities like Riley Children’s Hospital and the Children’s Miracle Network.

This simple act of generosity undoubtedly resonates with many Walmart customers, me included. It allows Walmart customers to follow Sam’s example and donate for the benefit of others. Rounding up might just be a small amount of change for each customer, but together it can add up to a substantial amount.

However, I have a suggestion that I believe could further enhance this wonderful program. While the charities Walmart has chosen are undoubtedly worthy causes, I think it would be incredibly impactful if, occasionally, the option to round up could benefit a local charity. Since the donations come directly from those of us shopping here in Shelbyville, it seems fitting that we should have the opportunity to support causes within our own community.

If this idea works in Shelbyville, Walmart could expand it to other communities. This would not only foster a deeper connection between Walmart and the local communities it serves but also make it easier for customers to give back to their hometowns. Christmas, with its emphasis on goodwill and community, would be an ideal time to introduce this option.

Here in Shelbyville, the money could be donated to Blue River Foundation. By donating the money to Blue River Foundation, it would help the community of the people doing the “rounding up.” Because the foundation’s administrative expenses are already fully funded, every penny would be used for charity.

Thank you for considering this suggestion. I believe it would be a meaningful way to enhance the spirit of giving that Walmart already champions so well.

Warm regards,

Kris Meltzer

Author of “A View From My Schwinn”

Note: This week’s photo is of local attorney Tyler Earl Brant and his cat, Sassafras. Team Schwinn was instrumental in creating a “sister city” relationship with Shelbyville, Kentucky, years ago. Earl, as he was known to the Kentuckians, is pictured in front of our embassy parked at the local Walmart.

See you all next week, same Schwinn time, same Schwinn channel.

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