FERGUS – Employee volunteer programs are a growing trend and one that serves all involved.
Benefits can include keeping employees engaged, building camaraderie and, improving the company’s culture and employer brand.
Ecclestone Financial Group (EFG) in Fergus found that out firsthand when it teamed up with the Food and Friends program operated by the Children’s Foundation of Guelph and Wellington.
The charitable program provides a healthy breakfast, lunch or snack to hungry students across Dufferin, Wellington and Guelph, ensuring they are better able to focus on learning.
EFG connected with Bobbi Turner, Food and Friends’ student nutrition program manager, who set the business up with James McQueen Public School in Fergus. Two EFG employees volunteered every Friday morning for the remainder of the school year.
“Our team has appreciated the opportunity to volunteer with James McQueen’s yogurt bar. It’s great to meet the future leaders in our community,” said Ted Ecclestone, owner of EFG.
Both employees and students enjoyed the experience, officials say.
“We have many volunteer opportunities for companies to get involved with our student nutrition programs across Wellington County,” Turner said.
“There’s a lot of work involved in running a successful nutrition program, and our programs are delighted to have new volunteers help out.
“It’s an amazing feeling knowing you have played a part in making a child’s day better.”
Corporate volunteering is a win-win for everyone.
For more information contact the Food and Friends program at bobbi@childrensfoundation.org.
