Story by Robin Seaton Jefferson | Photo by McCarty Photography
Apartial listing of philanthropic causes supported by Corporate Group, Inc. And the Jerry Scheidegger Family include American Diabetes Association, American Heart Association, American Red Cross, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Birthright Counseling, Boone Center, Inc., Boy Scouts of America, Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Charles County, Bridgeway Counseling, Catholic Community Services, Child Advocacy Council, Citizens against Domestic Violence and Connections to Success. And that just takes us through the C’s. And that’s just a partial list. Local hometown hero and philanthropist Jerry Scheidegger was honored November 15 with the “Outstanding Philanthropist” award at National Philanthropy Day at America’s Center. Sponsored by the St. Louis Regional Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (afp), National Philanthropy Day recognizes those who make their own communities unique through outstanding philanthropic activities. “The individuals and organizations being honored locally have positively impacted non-profit organizations through the entire St. Louis region, improving the quality of life for all people,” said Andrew Bundesen, manager of Foundation Gifts for the Saint Louis Zoo and chair of National Philanthropy Day 2011 in St. Louis. Scheidegger said he would rather be in the background helping the people of the community that has been so good to his family. “I am humbled. Many, many people are more deserving than me. You have to give back,” he said. “Life has been good to me in St. Charles County and our family policy is to give back as much as we can. That’s not just monetarily. That’s working and spending time in the organization.” He has managed to build a multi-million dollar company and share much of his wealth and success with others. For nearly 40 years, Corporate Group, Inc. (Formerly Midwest Property Management) has specialized in commercial and residential real estate management, development, leasing and sales. The company manages over 1.5 Million square feet of commercial space as well as land and out lots and approximately 140 residential units. But Scheidegger said the return from his philanthropic efforts is far more profitable. “What I get back is 10-fold,” he said. “The rewards are unbelievable. The more you help, the more your life becomes better and better.”
