Introduction

Speirs Finance Group, through their distinctive “Yoogoo” brand, took part in Blue CSR’s Volunteer Day Program. This was not just any volunteering day, but their inaugural one, held at Ambury Park Centre on November 17, 2023. The program stands out for its seamless integration of Corporate social responsibility into corporate cultures, allowing companies like Speirs Finance Group to create significant impacts within their community and foster a sense of purpose and togetherness among employees.

The Event

Located in a serene setting, Ambury Park Centre specialises in equine therapy and educational programs for individuals with learning and physical disabilities. The Speirs Finance team introduced the Centre Manager and a vocational student to the Centre’s operations, who shared insights into the facility’s historical significance.

Activities and Impact

The volunteering activities were not just symbolic gestures, but practical contributions to the Ambury Park Centre. The team bagged horse manure, which served as a fundraising tool for the Centre and promoted sustainable agricultural practices, aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs) of responsible consumption and production (Goal 12). They also engaged in gardening, enhancing the vocational training facilities at the Centre, and contributing to sustainable cities and communities (Goal 11).

Stakeholder Engagement

The day was organised through Blue CSR’s comprehensive stakeholder mapping to maximise engagement with various community members, including the Centre’s staff, students, and horses. This approach ensured that the volunteering efforts were not only beneficial to the Centre but also to the Speirs Finance team, fostering an environment of mutual respect and benefit, and highlighting the value of community engagement.

UN Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs) Integration

The activities were strategically chosen not just for their immediate benefits but also for their strong alignment with the broader UNSDGs. Interaction with therapy horses and involvement in the Centre’s garden projects supported goals related to good health and well-being (Goal 3) and life on land (Goal 15). This strategic alignment, guided by Blue CSR, helped Speirs Finance understand and communicate the broader impact of their CSR initiatives, emphasizing the significance of their efforts.
Reflecting Corporate Social Responsibility

During the day, they provided a reflective space for employees to discuss and understand their roles within the larger framework of corporate social responsibility. The event emphasised the importance of volunteer policies, guided by Blue CSR’s expertise in creating frameworks that encourage continuous engagement and define clear roles and expectations for corporate volunteers.

Conclusion and Future Directions

The feedback collected via a survey indicated a positive impact on both the Speirs Finance team and the Ambury Park Centre, suggesting potential for future volunteering events. This case study not only highlights the Volunteer Day Program’s success but also the sense of accomplishment it brought to the Speirs Finance team, highlighting Blue CSR’s ability to tailor CSR strategies that align with company values, community needs, and global sustainability goals.
For more information on setting up a successful CSR strategy that integrates volunteering, stakeholder engagement, and UNSDGs alignment, contact Blue CSR to discuss your specific needs and how we can assist in maximising your CSR impact.