Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) isn’t just another checkbox on a corporate agenda; it’s an opportunity to connect with communities, cultivate meaningful change, and make a lasting impact. In 2023, Cisco embraced this philosophy through their dedicated volunteering partnership with Visthar.
From Boardrooms to Bloom Beds: Over 600 Cisco employees, from diverse departments and backgrounds, offered their volunteer time at Visthar. Leaving behind their usual boardrooms and laptops, they donned gloves and hats, trading spreadsheets for spades. They got involved in the sustainability initiatives on our campus.
Planting Seeds of Change: The volunteers weren’t just planting seeds; they were sowing the seeds of change. They learned about organic farming practices, compost creation, recycling waste paper and hand-built pottery first hand. They worked alongside the Visthar team, sharing their skills and experiences in a spirit of mutual learning and respect.
Shaping Clay at the Pottery Unit: The volunteers also worked on hand-built pottery, shaping lumps of clay into beautiful planters. This hands-on experience provided a unique avenue for relaxation, focus, and artistic expression, while also supporting our sustainability practices.
Unleashing Creativity at Srujana Recycled: Here, the volunteers delved into the world of recycling and upcycling at our paper recycling unit. They made vibrant and functional art pieces, learning about sustainable waste management and giving new life to discarded paper. The process wasn’t just about crafting; it was about fostering innovation, resourcefulness, and a deeper appreciation for environmental responsibility
A Ripple Effect of Impact: The 2023 Cisco-Visthar partnership wasn’t just a one-time event; it was a catalyst for lasting change. Cisco volunteers returned to their workplaces imbued with newfound perspectives, a deeper understanding of social issues, and a renewed commitment to sustainability. They became champions of CSR within their own teams, inspiring others to get involved and make a difference.
The story of Cisco’s CSR journey at Visthar is an inspiring one, but it’s not just about Cisco. It’s a call to action for all of us, to seek out opportunities to connect with our communities, contribute our skills and time, and be part of something bigger than ourselves. Whether it’s volunteering at a local non-profit, supporting sustainable businesses, or simply adopting eco-friendly practices in our daily lives, every small action has the power to create a ripple effect of positive change.
So, what are you waiting for? Get involved today and be part of a movement that’s cultivating a better future for all.