No region is exempt from suffering some catastrophe that not only modifies a city or country at a structural level, but, even worse, has a negative impact on the lives of thousands of people who, as a result of a hurricane, earthquake or war, lose their heritage or even access to basic resources to survive.
But we can’t only talk about these eventualities. Every day there are needs, illnesses, problems and more causes that require constant support. It is then that solidarity becomes relevant since it is required that all actors in civil society, including companies, from their respective trenches and to the extent of their possibilities, contribute to getting ahead in the different scenarios.
And it is the word solidarity that has become a constant in recent days after the passage of Otis, the category 5 hurricane that devastated everything in its path and left cities like Acapulco, Guerrero devastated and its inhabitants in a state of vulnerability. . This fact has motivated different companies to take action on the matter and support in different ways, for example, through collection centers.
Why is it important not to be oblivious to tragedies?
Although there is increasing awareness about the importance of supporting those who need it most, it is also a fact that climate change is getting worse, hunger is increasing, natural disasters are more frequent, gender violence does not stop, more Animals suffer from abandonment, diseases are still present and there are endless causes that need hands and resources to be combated.
And under this scenario, companies must take action to contribute to improving their environment and return part of what they have received. Situations such as the one generated by Hurricane Otis are the perfect opportunity to put solidarity into practice, which beyond being an isolated event, must become part of the fundamental values of a company.
Solidarity should not only be seen from a reputational perspective, since this value can leave its mark on the workforce and, more importantly, on all those who benefit from it who will have a new opportunity.
How to promote solidarity in your company?
Although it seems easy, making solidarity a definitive and not temporary business attribute requires great effort and commitment. These are some of the actions you can start:
- Give the example. Donations, pro bono activities, events or promotions to raise funds and more… the important thing is to demonstrate your commitment with actions in order to infect other collaborators.
- Encourage participation. Invite your workforce to participate, voluntarily, in different actions; You can promote the collection of donations (in kind or financial), invite them to volunteer or any type of activity that allows them to get involved.
- Implement active listening. Although as a company you may have a defined cause to contribute to, do not close the doors to, to the extent possible, supporting other needs that are important to employees.
Abroad, outside your work area, there are many causes and organizations that need your solidarity. Find something you are passionate about, choose how you can support it and don’t give up, the actions your company implements can have a bigger impact than you think.
Daniela Ramos Communicator and mother. With 10 years of experience, I have been able to tell stories related to business, personal finances, work culture, entrepreneurship and technology.