For one day each year, IAG Cargo employees in London have the opportunity to take a paid volunteer day, known as our ‘Day to Make a Difference’. Now in its second year running, the campaign lets us help good causes in need of support, giving back and strengthening our commitment to our local communities – in a way that’s personal, fun, and just as rewarding. Not only does the initiative help those in need, but it increases colleague engagement, builds relationships between different departments, develops better interpersonal skills, and grows confidence in our future leaders.
Last year, we teamed up with our partner, DHL Global Forwarding, to improve the garden facilities at a large community children’s centre in Hillingdon. The initiative was so successful that we brought it back again, this time transforming the gardens at two smaller children’s centres in the local area over a week in April.
Keen gardeners and DIY enthusiasts from IAG Cargo and DHL Global Forwarding came together to jet wash, weed, paint, and carry out repairs, making the outdoor spaces even nicer for local families to enjoy spending time in. We asked our volunteers to share some of their highlights, and why these projects are so important.
Mark Fourie, Regional Key Accounts Manager, IAG Cargo
The volunteer day serves as an excellent opportunity to get alongside one of our key customers and support the local community. Everyone turns up on the day ready and willing to take part in any given task. Putting in the effort and knowing it will make a difference to the children is hugely rewarding. Well done to DHL Global Forwarding and IAG Cargo for sponsoring such a fantastic initiative.
Paul Wanless, Global Industrial Projects Implementation Manager, DHL Global Forwarding
I’ve volunteered before, and it has always been a worthwhile experience. It’s also great to get out and about and meet new people. Seeing the amount of garden debris (such as dirt and cobwebs) cleared, and the huge difference that made – even after just one day – is incredible. Plus, we managed to not disturb the hibernating hedgehog!
Since DHL is a global company, it’s good to let the community know that we can be ‘local’ too. We’re eager to make a difference, connect people, and improve lives. I’m very pleased to have taken part and to know that the kids, their families, and the staff at the centre will benefit from an enhanced outdoor area. It’s good to take a short break from our busy working lives and feel rewarded for giving back. There are so many meaningful projects in need of help and often there isn’t ‘somebody else’ who will take care of them.
Holly Masivi, Station IRR Lead, DHL Global Forwarding
My mum takes my youngest to our local children’s centre to play, so helping out felt natural and important, and giving back always feels great. The best parts were meeting new people, the excellent teamwork, and making a difference. I really feel like I’ve done a good thing. Getting outside also works wonders for your wellbeing, and time spent away from the office gives you a different perspective of our company and the various projects we’re involved in. The transformation these children will experience that we get to be a part of makes everyone feel very proud.
Koji Miyazaki, Global Key Account Manager, IAG Cargo
All of us truly enjoyed this wonderful experience and were so happy to support our local community. It was a great collaboration with DHL Global Forwarding. Please join us next time – you will have no regrets!
Are you interested in a career at IAG Cargo where you can get involved in fun and rewarding projects like this? Check out our latest roles here.