Expedia volunteers in Global ‘Day of Caring’

Following previous successful activities together, BIG Alliance recently worked with Expedia, Inc.’s London office to connect the travel experts to local community organisations across Islington, as part of their annual ‘Day of Caring’ global initiative. ‘Day of Caring’ took place throughout September 2017 and encouraged employees to step away from their desks for a day and join forces with colleagues to volunteer with local charities and community organisations.

BIG Alliance sourced a total of 25 opportunities for Expedia employees to give back through a variety of different ways, some with a practical focus and others where they really got to flex their business skills. Examples included socialising with older neighbours from North London Cares, hosting a digital inclusion session for Age UK Islington clients, sprucing up four of Islington Play Association’s adventure playgrounds, running an enrichment afternoon to inspire students from Highbury Fields School, and transforming the gardens in six Islington schools ready for the new school term.

“Expedia volunteers are amazing. All the teams came along with the same enthusiasm and energy to make a positive difference and complete all jobs set,” said Sophia Ioannou, Environmental Tutor with Plant Environment, “Children, staff and parents/carers at each school have commented on the positive changes and are very grateful for the positive impact that each volunteer made.”

Mike Evans, Programme Coordinator for North London Cares, looked after three groups of Expedia volunteers who gave their time to social clubs in Islington. “[The Expedia volunteers] all brought such joy, friendship and energy to the fold which made for great social clubs. We believe that’s of huge value to those people that came along. Particularly those that spend most of their time at home alone.”

All of the community organisations that took part in ‘Day of Caring’, whether environmental, intergenerational or educational in nature, are committed to tackling some of the biggest issues facing the borough of Islington. By giving their time and expertise, an impressive total of 508 Expedia volunteers were able to contribute greatly to these worthy causes, giving back 2657 hours to local communities. A huge thank you and well done to everyone involved!