Sharing Smiles with young ones

Mumbai branch of HSBC Bank organized a unique event engaging its own employees to raise funds for a project titled ‘Hamara School’ in Goa. The project provides formal education, residential facilities, vocational training and healthcare facilities to street children in Goa.

The event was held in two phases primarily to engage as many employees in the fundraising activity as possible. 80 employees of HSBC Bank had a day out with 35 children of Hamara School in the first phase which was held on 29th August in Goa. Employees and children played interesting interactive team games involving cooperation and coordination. The games helped to sensitize employees towards the needs of children and brought children closer to them. Children on the other hand had an experience of a lifetime and were thrilled to the core. Mouth watering delicacies that followed the games made the day for the children. The first phase culminated with each of the participating child receiving a utility gift like a school bag or a stationary item from one of the employees of the bank. The second phase organized on 14th Sep’08 witnessed repeat of activities of the first phase with a fresh set of participating employees and children.

Speaking post event, Ms Ami Kamdar , HSBC Coordinator, said, “ It has been a novel experience for me and all my colleagues. In fast paced times of today one does not get enough time to halt and think about finer aspects of life like helping others, doing some good act. This event gave all of us an opportunity to indulge in fineries of life. We all would love to be a part of such an event again.” Mr Nilesh Parmar, HSBC Operations Head, summed it up by saying, “It was an exhilarating experience for all of us and we look forward to more such opportunities in future too.”

The funds raised by employees were matched by HSBC Bank. Smile Foundation gave further fillip to Bank’s gesture by matching the total funds raised by the employees and the bank put together. The event was a wonderful example of how privileged masses could be brought together to help the underprivileged.