GIVING BACK
Litter-pickers – SABIC ’ s Redcar beach clean volunteers .
It ’ s not easy for a business to dedicate time for volunteering or provide donations , but the value of volunteering can be so beneficial to employees and for businesses alike .
people attended , with many dressed for a real hoedown with Stetsons and cowboy boots at the ready .
A team of volunteers supported the event , selling tickets for games and serving food .
SABIC volunteer Kathryn Harper said : “ I had the pleasure of participating in two SABIC volunteering activities this year . The Ladies of Steel event was such good fun – the country music-themed lunch and games was a great afternoon . It was heartwarming to witness the friendships and socialising that takes place - as well as some very impressive line dancing !”
Kathryn ’ s second volunteering event was a Redcar beach clean . “ We were lucky enough to get a gorgeous sunny autumnal day ,” she said . “ The fresh air and great company provided an invigorating couple of hours for a worthy cause .”
Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal SABIC teamed up with the Wilton Centre ’ s Pioneer Group and the Redcar branch of the Royal British Legion for the Poppy Appeal .
Pioneer supported the Poppy Appeal by selling poppies in reception and around the building , while SABIC presented a donation , which was handed over by former forces personnel from the SABIC team and other Wilton Centre residents who are also former forces personnel .
Karen Redfearn , business communications partner , who organises the SABIC community activities , said : “ Our community events are a real pleasure . Connecting with community project organisations and the volunteers who work tirelessly to support them is quite humbling .
“ It ’ s also lovely to see how much the SABIC team enjoy the experiences . There ’ s definitely a ‘ feel-good factor ’ in giving your time to a worthy cause . Volunteering is a great team-building opportunity and we also have plenty of fun !
“ Having worked for businesses of varying sizes , I am very aware that it ’ s not easy for a business to dedicate time for volunteering or provide donations , but the value of volunteering can be so beneficial to employees and for businesses alike .
Cheque-out – SABIC donated £ 2,000 to local charity
Footprints in the Community .
“ If you consider employee retention , this could be one factor in your business being a ‘ great place to work ’. The community projects benefit from the support and it ’ s also good for business reputation .”
Volunteering checklist for employers
> Ask employees what they would like to support . People are more likely to volunteer for causes they feel passionate about and appreciate the value of .
> Research volunteering opportunities through local and social media .
> Consider what is practical for your team . For example , physical tasks might not suit everyone , but there could be a range of volunteering activities that would work well for others .
> Ensure activities are safe for employees and any health and safety risks are minimised .
> Allocate time for volunteering – this does not need to be your entire team at the same time .
The voice of business in the Tees region | 29