Established in 1985, Magellan is more than a specialty steel distributor. Magellan is also an exemplary corporate citizen.
Throughout decades of business, we’ve earned a reputation as an engaged and generous company. The Magellan logo is visible to Chicagoans thanks to our prolific support of many sports teams, music venues, and cultural initiatives.
But we’re most proud of our work with charitable organizations. Through hands-on volunteer opportunities and with direct financial support, we have contributed to dozens of nonprofit groups addressing cultural opportunities and critical societal needs in the Chicagoland area.
It makes us feel pretty great.
Kindness is serious business at Magellan Corporation.
From learning from a boardroom presentation by a world-renowned astronomer to plating chicken dinners in the USO commissary, exploring behind the scenes at a museum to attending executive luncheons, entertaining at client appreciation events, or supporting nonprofit fundraisers, Magellan employees find there’s no such thing as a typical work week. Here are a few snapshots of activities we’ve participated in over the years.
A day to celebrate two of the greats!
Frank Paolillo our EVP and Chief of Commercial Operations, has been Magellan for 35 years! Frank has been boots on the ground nearly since our inception, and helped shape the company into what it is today. He is tireless, endless in his knowledge of our business and the marketplace, and a true delight to work with. His dedication and leadership have been pivotal to our success.
EVice President of Materials Management, an impressive 25 years with Magellan. Over the years, Emily has excelled in multiple roles, contributing significantly to our growth. She is thoughtful, meticulous, and a kind soul.
During the celebration, stories were told (but what is said in our Board Room stays in our Board Room!), and the gathering was followed by a tasty lunch.
We’re grateful for the passion, commitment, and positive energy Frank & Emily bring to our team!
What does it take to feed 50 hardworking inventory professionals, dock workers and stevedores? On Tuesday, September 24, it took 40 Italian beef sandwiches, 50 Italian sausage rolls, 32 cheeseburgers, 24 hot dogs, a giant salad and 5 large chocolate cakes.
Magellan has begun treating our own inventory crew as well as the other great men and women working at North American Stevedoring Company to monthly lunches. While usually the lunch has been in the form of a taco truck, this month the guys had a different idea. So Portillo’s it was! And we loaded them up on beef – LOTS of beef.
Our crew of six guys includes Luis, Angel, Larry, Dominic, Tyrece and Leo. All Chicago inventory is tagged, moved, stored, catalogued and shipped out under their skillful oversight. And they’re at work every day, regardless of weather. We know how indispensable they are to helping Magellan fulfill our commitment to superior service to clients – we couldn’t do it without them.
The relationships they’ve formed with the other folks at NASCO and Great Lakes Reload plays a big part in our success, too. These monthly lunches are one way we say, “thank you.”
“Behavioral Health Matters. You Matter. Without Question.” This encapsulates the mission of Community Counseling Centers of Chicago (C4), and Magellan could not agree more. That is why C4 was one of four nonprofit recipients of $5,000 contributions from Magellan Corporation recognized at recent Chicago Sky games. C4's CEO Kerri Brown was honored to accept the check to further their important work.
Sponsoring sports isn’t all Magellan does – far from it. We have been active corporate citizens since our founding, some 35+ years ago. We believe it is not only our duty but also a privilege to strengthen the community around us by supporting cultural initiatives, and nonprofits that address critical societal needs.
Misericordia Home (serving persons with developmental disabilities), Top Box Foods (bringing healthy, affordable grocery options to underserved Chicagoland neighborhoods), and Boys & Girls Club of Chicago (a robust youth development program in Chicago) were also recognized with contributions.
On the afternoon of September 10, 2024, Magellan Corporation and our sister company, Hudson Shipping, joined forces to host a blood drive in collaboration with the American Red Cross. The drive took place at our shared office building and brought together not just employees, but other tenants and members from the community.
Throughout the afternoon, we saw a steady stream of volunteers roll up their sleeves to donate blood. Representatives from the American Red Cross were on hand to make the process smooth, explaining that a single blood donation can save up to three lives. That reminder motivated everyone, knowing that their small act of kindness could have a profound impact on those in need.
The importance of blood donation can't be overstated. According to the Red Cross, donated blood is essential for surgeries, cancer treatments, chronic illnesses, and traumatic injuries.
We’re looking forward to hosting more events like this in the future!
Familiar with the expression “like herding cats?” Well, this was a little like that! On September 5th, 2024, Chicago Sky player Elizabeth Williams and assistant coach Awvee Storey teamed up with Sky staff to host a high-energy basketball clinic for 60 enthusiastic (and adorable) kids and counselors from the Boys & Girls Club of Chicago (BGCC). Part of our sponsorship with the Sky enables us to have Meet & Greet events. By passing these along to nonprofit partners, Magellan shares our commitment to the community by helping create memorable experiences.
The gym was buzzing with excitement as Elizabeth Williams, a defensive powerhouse for the Sky, led the kids through fun drills and challenges. Elizabeth's passion for both basketball and mentorship shone through, and the kids were thrilled to get tips from a true pro. Awvee Storey, a Chicago native and former NBA pro kept the energy high, encouraging the young athletes with his signature mix of intensity and humor.
And what’s an event without a tasty conclusion? We wrapped up with delicious slices from Robert’s Pizza -- the perfect wind down after a day full of basketball fun and learning.
Magellan Corporation values its partnerships with both the Chicago Sky and BGCC, and events like these are a reminder of the positive impact that can be made when sports, community, and generosity come together. Everyone left with full hearts, full tummies, and fantastic memories.
On an August afternoon, the residents of Misericordia Home welcomed a special visit from Chicago Fire players Andrew Gutman and Fabian Herbers. Thanks to Magellan’s partnership with the Fire, the two players conducted a soccer clinic for the well beloved Chicago nonprofit, which supports individuals with developmental disabilities.
The players led drills and activities, engaging the men and women of Misericordia and fostering a sense of camaraderie on the field (which, due to weather, was actually the gymnasium!). Sparky, the Fire’s mascot, added to the lively atmosphere, entertaining everyone with his antics.
The day was filled with laughter and enthusiasm, creating memorable moments for all involved. Magellan is proud to have facilitated this opportunity for the residents of Misericordia, and we look forward to more meaningful events in the future!
Remember when we told you we were more than a steel company?
Follow Magellan Corporation on LinkedIn to learn about updates on our business, meet our team members, read a little bit about our civic and athletic involvements, and become more familiar with our nonprofit partners.
We have a lot to say!