Corporate and charity worlds united over bollywood dancing and badminton recently when volunteers from Goldman Sachs spent a day with the Ashiana Charitable Trust.
Coordinated by The British Asian Trust, the volunteering day on 25th June saw Goldman Sachs’ staff facilitate a range of activities for children and young adults with learning difficulties. The Ashiana Charitable Trust, based in the London Borough of Harrow, works to empower and provide support to people with mental disabilities, their familes and carers.
Ten volunteers from Goldman Sachs, the international investment banking and securities firm, participated as part of its global volunteering initiative, Community TeamWorks. The British Asian Trust, Ashiana and Goldman Sachs joined forces to organise a special day in line with the corporation’s core principles of commitment, energy, excellence and the importance of the individual.
Volunteers experienced first-hand, the challenges that come with looking after people with mental disabilities. Held in conjunction with National Carer’s Week, the day culminated in a lunch sponsored by Goldman Sachs where carers relaxed while volunteers assisted the young people.
Hitan Mehta, Executive Director of The British Asian Trust, said: “It was great bringing together two organisations whose day-to-day worlds don’t normally intersect. It was a meaningful experience that was enjoyed by the young people, their families and carers, while enabling volunteers from Goldman Sachs to bring joy through simple activities to Ashiana’s beneficiaries.”
Yogesh Teli, Chairman of Ashiana’s Trustees said: “The day gave us the opportunity to showcase our work and its impact. We do hope Goldman Sachs will return to volunteer with us in the near future. Thank you Goldman Sachs and The British Asian Trust.”
Judging by their feedback, Goldman Sachs’ volunteers enjoyed the day as much as the beneficiaries:
“An absolutely amazing day! So refreshing to meet such an interesting group of people, who despite all obstacles continue to persevere and push all boundaries to achieve success. The day has been a real eye opener and Ashiana are doing a fantastic job. Keep up the good work and hope your dream of a day care centre becomes true very soon.” Alia Khan
“A very inspiring day and an equally inspiring group of people. It was a wake up call, a day to being us back to reality and how small things in life can make you feel happy. Amazing experience.” Athanasios Dimou
“It was my first experience with this organisation. Though it was short, it was a fantastic experience, both from the kids’ perspective and from my enjoyment. Great initiative, great
thought by the Trustees to bring/educate the society – very well organised and coordinated. Would love to visit again.” Govind Shanbogue
“Great day and well worthwhile. The organisation is inspiring and it was great to be a part of it for today.” Sunita Goli
“Extremely inspiring day, and was a good eye opener. Would definitely like to be more involved…Thought all the organisers and the volunteers do a tremendous job.” Saloni Mamtora
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