Are big organizations part of the problem or part of the solution? How can we act more responsibly? What can I do? In a world where the actions of corporations reverberate globally, the concept of social responsibility rings loudly in our ears.
If you’re daunted by the prospect of making a significant impact on society individually, remember we’re all part of a collective—IFS—a global community with shared values and aspirations.
What is our approach at IFS?
At IFS, our approach is manifold. If you’re at a loss of where to start, and how to help, don’t fret… but read on! Whether it’s a charity run, a black-tie dinner for a cause, or volunteering at a soup kitchen, rolling up your sleeves is the best way to get involved.
Volunteering at the Soup Kitchen
Recently, IFS went to the Helping Hands Community Project in Leamington Spa to cook dinner for the forty-so estimated guests who were in need of a hot meal.
Before we even started, we had an enlightening sit-down with our organizer, Jeff, who explained the concept of the kitchen and partnership with House to Home who focus on providing furnishings such as beds and sofas to people who are given a place to stay.
The focus, like with the kitchen, is on giving people a hand up rather than a simple hand out – to lift those people up to a place where they can thrive and move on from the darkness.
One such success story is that of a lady who came to the charity after time spent in a rehabilitation unit to start an apprenticeship as a beautician. While we listened to their story, we were sat in the common room where the meals were served, and in the cozy and comforting environment, we could appreciate the importance of the “safe place” the charity provided.
All in all it was a fantastic opportunity to give something back to the local community.
Volunteer in all sorts of ways…
If soup kitchens aren’t up your street, there are countless other options. Why not…
- Organize a charity skydive and face your fear of heights like Olivia Kline
- Organize a litter pick like Verity and Michaela in Walton-upon Thames
- Organize a charity run like Cathie Hall and Stephen Keys who ran the Lakeland 50
At IFS, we offer each employee a CSR day per year to get involved with a cause they care about. As we grow – now at 6,000 employees worldwide – that’s 6,000 days – or the equivalent of one person volunteering every day for 23 years of their life and giving back to society!
This is a reminder that collectively, small actions can have a big impact.
Discover more about IFS’s CSR commitment here!
Read more about our Community Impact on our sustainability page.
Do you have questions or comments?
We’d love to hear them! Tell us about your volunteering activities in the comments!
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