Amgen France’s annual volunteer day engages the entire staff for a day of living Amgen’s values by positively impacting the wellbeing of the local community. In January, nearly 320 staff members participated in a series of projects and fundraising events through Unis-Cité, a community service program that benefits local charities.
For the first half of the day staff gathered around creative activities. Projects ranged from creating ribbons to fundraise for AIDS research, making toys and gifts for people who are hospitalized, to painting frescoes to brighten up temporary housing. "Thank you for your hospitality and for all the goods we received. The objects made during the workshops will entertain our little patients,” wrote one of the hospitals who received the items.
“Thank you for the interest you have shown in our association. We look forward to seeing our walls enlivened by the frescoes made by the Amgen employees,” wrote the director of another center.
During the afternoon, staff divided into teams to participate in “Play to Give.” Sporting challenges earned teams points that translated into donation dollars for two charities working with people who are disabled. As a result of these challenges 17,000 euros went toward purchasing rails and patient lifts, and 5,000 euros were donated to providing software and training for disabled children.
“I did not expect such a large amount!” wrote the manager of Envoludia Association, an organization working with disabled children and adults who received funds. “The team and I really thank Amgen and all employees for this gesture. This will really change our lives with rails and patient lifts.”
“This volunteer day is a big reminder that giving back to society is deeply embedded in our corporate genome,” said Sandrine, who helped organize the day-long event. “People felt proud to be part of a company that takes time out to look beyond commercial considerations to the wider social good.”
Whether it’s volunteering time and talents or making a financial donation, Amgen staff take action to improve the lives of others and the environment in their communities. Making an Impact Around the Globe is a monthly feature that highlights the variety of ways our staff use their Amgen Impact Day to make a positive difference in their communities.