Bonn – Deutsche Post DHL Group held its focus weeks of Global Volunteer Day (GVD) in September and October 2021. Especially in this period employees are encouraged to contribute to the society next to their doorsteps. The activities are as diverse as the Group’s workforce.
They range from educational programs in Madagascar, donations of protective equipment in Panama and support for the clean-up work in the German Ahr Valley after the flood to support for young people with autism in Malaysia. In the past year, 104,000 employees around the world contributed to more than 2,000 aid projects. Employees from all areas of the Group were involved, ranging from apprentices to the Board of Management. The Group expects to exceed last year’s very high attendance again this year.
Global Volunteer Day exists since 2008 and is one of the numerous initiatives of the Group’s ESG strategy. The Group pledges to invest 1 percent of its net profit annually in its group-wide social impact programs. Those aid activities are linked to the four “Go Programs” on environmental protection (GoGreen), disaster management (GoHelp) and improving the employability of young people in need (GoTeach), as well as supporting cross-border trade of small and medium-sized enterprises in developing countries (GoTrade).
“As the world’s leading logistics service provider we also carry a huge social responsibility. Our purpose “connecting people, improving lives” applies beyond the boundaries of the company across all countries. Making a difference is deeply rooted in our corporate culture. Our employees express solidarity and support with their engagement wherever an urgent need for volunteering exists. This commitment continues to impress me deeply and deserves respect,” says Thomas Ogilvie, Chief Human Resources Officer at Deutsche Post DHL Group.
Worldwide network for immediate help
Initiating and supporting aid projects is open to all employees. Following the devastating flood disaster in North Rhine-Westphalia and Rhineland-Palatinate, for example, it was a matter of the heart for many colleagues to get involved in the reconstruction effort in the Ahr Valley, in the immediate surroundings of the Group’s headquarters in Bonn.
The company has an “Improving Lives Fund”, which provides financial support for aid projects, if volunteers have a vision that goes beyond their time commitment. Also, employees in need of financial support caused by natural disasters can draw on an internal relief fund. Based on the principle “We Help Each Other”, the fund raises money from colleagues for colleagues. This year, the Group decided to double employee donations for the flood victims.
“Our worldwide presence results in a globe spanning aid network. Our employees contribute their time, passion and personal skills to a good cause. They set a shining example: each of us can make an effective contribution to society and the environment,” said Thomas Ogilvie.
