Like numerous companies across all industries, San Antonio-based BlackBrush Oil & Gas LLP is shifting gears in the current economy. At the end of June, the privately-held company announced it would sell 70% of its producing properties and consolidate offices. The sale allows BlackBrush to pay off 100% of its bank debt and leaves the company to focus on the condensate-rich Eagleford shale position. According to co-CEO Scott Martin, the company will emerge stronger and leaner. What hasn't changed, he continued, is the company's "commitment to core values such as teamwork, safe operations, environmental protection and community involvement."
Community involvement is a big part of BlackBrush's operations. Much of the company's philanthropic efforts are funneled through The MZ Foundation. The foundation was formed in 2006 in memory of Marty Zolkoski, a former BlackBrush executive, who passed away in July of 2005. Marty was a long time South Texas resident. He graduated from Poth High School, attended the University of Texas in Austin, and received his degree in San Antonio from St. Mary's University.
One of his personal goals was to assist charities and the individuals they represent with donations and support. "Marty was passionate about making sure everyone had access to a quality education," said Martin.
The foundation's first fundraiser, a golf tournament, was held on June 2, 2006. Now an annual event, the MZ Foundation Golf Tournament helps raise money for future scholarships. In 2008, the MZ Foundation granted $34,500 in college scholarships to ten students who are now attending Texas State University, UTSA, the University of Texas, University of Houston, and the University of Incarnate Word.
The giving doesn't stop there. Local non-profits also benefit from BlackBrush and the MZ Foundation. "Just this past year, it has been our pleasure to donate more than $20,000 to such organizations as the National Multiple Sclerosis Foundation, Make-A-Wish Foundation, Child Advocates of San Antonio, San Antonio Kids Exchange and the Texas Highway Patrol Museum, which assists the families of officers killed in the line of duty by creating scholarships for their children," explained Martin. This year, BlackBrush will participate in its third "Bike MS: Valero 2009 Alamo Ride to the River" in October. It is the mission of the two-day, 150-mile bicycle ride from San Antonio to New Braunfels and back to raise funds and awareness for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Contributions help fund research, further advocacy, facilitate education, and provide programs and services to help people with MS and their families.
Last year the company finished fourth in its fundraising efforts; so far this year, the team has raised over $12,000 and counting.
"It is important to help improve the quality of life in the areas we operate as a business," noted Martin. "Our corporate citizenship is about the contribution we make to society through our core business activities, our social investment and our philanthropy programs."
