Our world is facing countless challenges, from poverty and food insecurity to climate change. Solutions are needed, but we’re often left wondering how we can help. I believe that each of us can make a positive change in our world, starting right where we are.
I’m proud to work for a company that’s using its resources to create social change. Konica Minolta’s commitment to society is shared by employees all over the world, stemming from its management philosophy, “The Creation of New Value.” Corporations are in a unique position to make a difference with resources like in-kind and monetary donations and employee volunteer time. Through programs like the “3 Green Activities” and the “Clean Planet Program,” Konica Minolta and more than 43,000 employees in 150 countries have been enacting change for years on a global level.
Just as important as our corporate commitment is our personal one. Konica Minolta employees are also making a difference right in our own communities. We organize donation drives, collecting books and school supplies every year. Departments wear red clown noses to raise money for underprivileged kids and purchase holiday gifts for low-income families. Branches across the country wear pink and grow moustaches to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer research and men’s health. All of these individual actions contribute to change.
This summer, our branches across the U.S. are participating in our annual Food for Thought initiative, running local food drives to collect nutritious meals for kids from low-income families. In the past 4 years, we’ve donated more than 30,000 items to local food banks in cities and towns all over the country. By allowing each branch to work with local foodbanks, collecting most needed items in that community, we are able to make the greatest impact.
At our U.S. headquarters in Ramsey, N.J., we’re working with the local non-profit, MEVO to help low-income families eat better. This summer, a team of employees volunteered on the MEVO farm, planting crops that will be harvested and delivered to local food banks. It is rewarding for me to know that the vegetables being planted could make a huge difference in people’s lives.
This corporate culture of social change is valued by all Konica Minolta employees, at all levels. Last month, a team of executives donned hard hats and goggles and helped build a home for a low-income family through Habitat for Humanity. The home will be donated to the family in early 2017.
While one person or company may not be able to solve all of the world’s problems, each of us can certainly make a positive change in our communities. I’m excited to continue to work with the Konica Minolta team to create solutions for society, remembering how important it is to “be the change you want to see in the world.”
See more Konica Minolta Community Service photos below:
USA
Global
