Using Our Hands and Global Footprint to Make a Difference in Latin America and the Caribbean
By D.J. Miller, vice president of marketing, customer service and retail, FedEx Express
It is no secret that FedEx team members participate in community service projects year-round. But every year, during FedEx Cares Week, it is truly inspiring to see so many team members from the global FedEx family come together to support their communities in meaningful projects around the world. The photos tell the story: a lot of purple tee shirts dotting the planet and proclaiming that FedEx cares….but it is the people in those tee shirts that prove it. From feeding the hungry, to teaching children important skills, to building sustainable housing, to doing good for the environment -- the people that make up FedEx do care and do a great deal of good.
In the Latin America and Caribbean region (LAC), where so many still lack basic goods and services, the contributions of our team member volunteers during FedEx Cares Week have tremendous impact. This year, there are planned volunteer projects in 27 LAC countries, and nearly 2,000 volunteers have participated or plan to participate in these projects, which will run through November. The LAC passion for giving back to our communities, especially during FedEx Cares Week, is evident.
The projects include supporting Safe Kids in São Paulo, Brazil and our shared mission of child safety. In Porto Alegre, Brazil our team members are helping children in need by donating clothing and shoes. Various organizations benefitting poor children and the homeless in Puerto Rico received help from our team members who served lunch and provided needed supplies as well as their time.
In Jamaica, FedEx volunteers refurbished a home for abused girls, and in seven countries across the region we are working with TECHO, a non-profit organization that seeks to overcome extreme poverty in Latin America and the Caribbean through the joint work of families in need and volunteers. These are just some examples of the positive change FedEx volunteers are bringing to LAC communities this year.
FedEx Cares Week is a focused celebration of employees’ year-round commitment to giving back to communities through volunteerism, charitable support and collaboration with local organizations and causes. Last year, nearly 50,000 volunteer hours were logged at more than 500 non-profit agencies worldwide.
I could not feel more proud to be part of an organization that not only champions, but encourages, its employees to give something back to the communities FedEx serves. FedEx Cares Week is a testament to who FedEx is, and reflects the spirit of its employees both in and beyond the workplace.
How can you help in your corner of the world?
Contact your local United Way or community volunteer organization in your city for opportunities large and small.
