Like many professionals in the workplace, I struggle to find the extra hour in the day just to “get it all done.” The thought of service to my community does cross my mind, especially when there are so many areas that need attention. But when, how? Basically, I need to roll up my sleeves and dig in, just like the Serena St. Albans, UK office did. My heart warmed when I heard about the team volunteering to help out at the Watling View School recently.
Watling View School is a school for children and young people with severe learning difficulties. They have 85 students between the ages of 3 and 19 and have plans to increase enrollment. The school grounds were in need of some tender, love and care after the summer break. This became a great opportunity for the Serena St. Albans team to give back, learn about the school, and most important, interact with the students, who absolutely love to meet and work with visitors.
After a quick briefing, the team of Serena employees and students worked to tidy up the vegetable and sensory gardens, and helped continue construction of a greenhouse made out of bamboo sticks and recycled plastic bottles (pictured). How cool is that? I’m a huge supporter of environmental sustainability and this part of the project was so interesting to me. If you’re thinking of trying this one at home, be prepared to cut and wash a lot of plastic bottles!
I know all of the Serena employees that pitched in at Watling View School really enjoyed helping a wonderful organization, having fun, and coming together as a team to accomplish something positive for those who really need our help. They’re committed to go back to the school each quarter to continue sprucing up the gardens, planting and painting – not to mention completing the greenhouse! See more photos from the event.
