Social investment

Glacier employees formed a Community Care committee in 2002, which has since been actively involved in various initiatives. Staff are encouraged to donate their time - during or after working hours - to an organisation that has been endorsed by the company to assist in the upliftment of our community.

The committee, consisting of passionate representatives from all departments across the company, identifies, co-ordinates and drives social involvement projects in which all staff can participate by volunteering some of their time, resources and expertise. The committee has funded virtually all of its activities by internal fund-raising events. It has also requested and received sponsorships and donations from external companies to assist in achieving its aims.

Some of the projects in which we are involved include:

Susan La Poorta Children's Home

We have a long-standing relationship with this home in Sarepta, Kuils River, which is a place of safety for abandoned, orphaned, neglected and/or abused children. In addition to improving the condition of their house, we assist in meeting the children's material needs, interact with them regularly and take them on outings.

Christmas choir

During December, staff form a choir to sing Christmas carols at several retirement homes in the community, such as Huis André van der Walt.

Habitat for Humanity

Glacier employees, together with employees from other businesses in the Sanlam Group, join Habitat for Humanity, a non-profit organisation, to build houses for underprivileged families. We have participated in this great event annually since 2004.

In 2007, Glacier invited brokers to take part as well, and the initiative was so-sponsored by some of the Management Companies, providing a week of fun and team-building for all.

Other initiatives supported by Glacier staff over the past year include:

• National Children's Day
• Do it Day!
• International Day of "Older Persons"
• Aged persons week
• National Heritage Day
• Human Rights Day
• World Aids Day

Our projects are not only confined to the Western Cape area. Glacier's satellite offices also work with the communities in their areas to make a difference. Our Durban team built a peace garden at the Sahara Centre for abused women and children, while the team in Gauteng contributed towards renovations for a Safe Haven.

Reach for a Dream, the National Sea Rescue Institute and TEARS, an animal welfare organisation, receive yearly donations and gifts from the Glacier team.