Arthritis Foundation and Massage Envy Spa Partnership Recognized at Inaugural Franchising Gives Back Awards

The International Franchising Association (IFA) Educational Foundation held their inaugural Franchising Gives Back Celebration and Awards Dinner yesterday, Sept. 28 in Washington, D.C.

The Arthritis Foundation and their partnership with Massage Envy Spa were among 10 Silver Award Winners, taking home the Spirit of Franchising Award. This award recognize an IFA member whose charitable or community support program embodies the spirit of what it means to be a part of the franchising industry by giving back to his or her local community.



Arthritis Foundation Board Chair Michael V. Ortman and Senior Vice President of Marketing at Massage Envy Spa Derek Detenber were in attendance to accept the award on behalf of the partnership.

Franchising Gives Back recognizes local community leaders and encourages the charitable acts and exemplary leadership demonstrated by franchisors, franchisees and suppliers in their local communities. The Awards salute the best, most innovative community leaders and charitable programs and the collective impact of these efforts across the U.S. and around the world.

The IFA Educational Foundation bestowed awards in five different areas at the awards dinner, including the Spirit of Franchising Award, Enduring Impact Award, Support Our Veterans Award, Innovation and Impact Award and the Newcomer Award.

“On behalf of the IFA Educational Foundation, I want to congratulate the first-ever award winners of the Franchising Gives Back Awards,” said John Reynolds, CFE, president of the IFA Educational Foundation. “The winners are outstanding examples of how franchise businesses support their communities through charitable acts throughout the year.”