Case study: Mars in the UK
The Mars Volunteer Programme in the UK is an integral part of 'Mars in the
Community', which provides a framework for employees to donate their time and
skills
to benefit the community.
The Volunteer Programme allows Mars to respond to requests from
the local community via its website, or from local organisations
such as Education Business Partnerships or Business Community
Partnerships. For example, Mars employees have delivered the
Skills for Life initiative, which prepares students for work experience.
This system enables Mars to be confident that the needs of the
community are being met.
The programme has received positive feedback from organisations
and employees alike. Over 400 employees were involved in the
scheme in 2008 and so far in 2009 this number has more than
doubled. This national programme is extremely wide-reaching;
over 10,000 people in the Slough area alone will benefit from Mars
employees' volunteering.
This year Mars organised a focused
volunteer week in June to coincide with National Volunteer Week.
The company contributes £30,000 a year to support its employees
through volunteering, matchfunding and payroll giving. Mars also
has a separate grants programme - some achievements include
donations for sports projects, improving facilities in schools and
environment/garden projects. To ensure continued support, teams
of Mars employees have built ponds and vegetable gardens where
a grant has been given.
Gold Award Winner of 2009 Community Partnership Awards: Local
Community Category
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More Information
Mars in the UK was a Bronze Award Winner of 2006 Community Partnership Awards: Local Community Category
FDF has published a booklet Community Partnership Awards 2009 (pdf, 916kb) featuring a range of company case studies from Community Partnership Award
winners.
Last reviewed: 15 Oct 2009