Crowd have built a bit of a reputation for getting involved with supporting charities and causes we really believe in. I know personally, I have always been naturally drawn to helping the underdog; if I can lend a hand, give an ear or a shoulder, I’m there, particularly when it is for causes I passionately believe in.
So we were delighted when Laurel Le Tocq from the Guernsey Community Foundation approached us recently. To those of you that don’t already know, this new organisation has been set up to promote philanthropy and charitable giving within The Bailiwick of Guernsey. It aims to bring about real improvements to the community and the lives of people most in need by encouraging and directing the strategic investment of both time and resources.
Their new Volunteer Matching Programme launched in June has proven to be a great success. The programme assists charities and voluntary organisations where additional professional skills are needed – such as helping develop a business plan, annual accounts and audit, media relation skills, develop strategies for fundraising and support with HR. The overall aim is to engage the local business community and bring fresh ideas and perspectives to charities and voluntary organisations.
It is through this innovative partnering programme that Crowd have been paired with The Guernsey Disability Alliance to support them with digital media strategy and support to highlight the importance of a Disability Strategy for the island. It is hard to believe that we live and work in such an affluent jurisdiction, that doesn’t yet have this in place.
Our Team have met with Shelaine Green, the Executive Chair of the GDA, to discuss how we can help and work with them to put a plan in place to raise awareness, both locally and at Government level, to get this crucial strategy in place.
The point of this post is to highlight and encourage other local businesses to get involved with the Guernsey Community Foundation, and offer their help and much needed advice. We often talk about and push the phrase “Corporate Social Responsibility”, which often means nothing more than giving financial support to a cause. Whilst this is noble and still an important element of CSR, we must, as businesses, also ask how else we can donate and help. Often this goes beyond monetary donations, and can come in the form of consultation, professional advice and expertise.
I can only talk on behalf of myself and Crowd when I say that there is much to be gained from getting involved. I’m so proud of the way my staff have literally given of themselves, both in time and knowledge, as part of this programme. I am learning about them as people as a direct result, and we are continuing with our brand promise, which is to nurture and develop local initiatives for the good of our community, not just ourselves.
We will be releasing details soon about the work we are doing with the GDA as a result of this programme, but in the meantime, I’d urge you to take a look at what Laurel and the Team at The Guernsey Community Foundation are doing.