WORKERS have long given some of their pay to social clubs or big charities, but one Lavington firm is pioneering a scheme that purely benefits Border welfare needs.
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Jayco Albury Wodonga has become the first business to partake in the Border Trust's workplace giving program which involves employees allocating part of their pay to the foundation.
The caravan retailer's role is not entirely an accident with its dealer principal Michael Houlihan being a director of the Border Trust.
“I've always wanted to have something in-house where we as a team can give support back into our local community and the workplace giving idea with Border Trust is something everybody thought was a good idea,” Mr Houlihan said.
“Not everyone contributes to it, but a third of the staff do and they're keen to see that fund build up and target specific needs in our community.”
Mr Houlihan said there had been no pressure on the 23 staff to participate, but many knew through their own community ties the value of Border Trust funding.
He said the company would match the amount raised before it was handed to the Border Trust for distribution next May.
The workplace giving program was the brainchild of Border Trust board member and Riverina TAFE human resources director Amanda Solly.
“With my HR background I was aware that a lot of organisations are very keen to initiate programs for employee engagement,” Mrs Solly said.
“Many employees like to donate to a worthy cause and give back in a way that is meaningful.
“I just felt there was an opportunity for Border Trust to develop a workplace giving program aimed at local businesses and local employees.”
Border Trust is highlighting the program as part of its May is Giving Month promotion.
Mrs Solly presented the idea to Jayco workers and is happy to explain the program at work sites across the trust's footprint which extends from Corowa to Corryong and from Henty to Harrietville.
More information can be found at bordertrust.org.au.