Our activities are shaped by our shared values – and this culture is reflected in our social engagement as well. We are particularly driven by a commitment to help people in need throughout the world. And those who can give always receive something back. That is why our social engagement is not only a source of pride, but also a way to continually expand our horizons.
Our social partners have helped us to build up an excellent network, both in Berlin and internationally. For years we have been working closely with the Club of Engineers & Friends e.V. (CEF-Help). Founded in 2007 by an enthusiastic group of friends, CEF-Help is currently a professional NGO whose primary focus is to help people become self-sufficient. They advocate for a fairer distribution of resources and provide assistance worldwide for the expansion of infrastructure and educational offerings. CEF-Help works on-site with local organizations, who are the most familiar with their respective needs.
Two times per year we contribute our talent outside of the workplace. The “Day of Caring,” is an opportunity to dedicate ourselves to charitable projects. For example, we get involved with neighborhood projects or refugee centers, working on pragmatic solutions such as setting up water treatment equipment or building playrooms for children. Working as a team, we learn to take on new roles and gain valuable experiences outside of the normal workday environment. These efforts are organized by CEF-Help together with local social partners.
For many years we have worked together with CEF-Help to support the work of OTEPIC, a self-help project in Kenya. In one of the poorest regions of the country, project manager Philip Munyasia and his team work with the Community and Permaculture Center to realize their vision of peaceful coexistence with food security, clean drinking water, education, and equal rights for all. We have been deeply impressed by the initiative’s accomplishments in recent years, and are happy to contribute to their success.
For us, sustainability begins right at the front door. A few years ago, we were inspired by OTEPIC to create our own homegrown “Industrial Garden.” Fruits, vegetables, flowers, and herbs are grown in raised beds, while benches around the garden provide the perfect place for a brief chat or an outdoor team meeting, when the weather cooperates.