In 2007, we launched an integrated Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative to align with the Founders' long-term commitment to social responsibility. CSR goes to the heart of Aperian Global's mission to create a sustainable future for our firm and our planet. A worldwide task force of employees oversaw the design of Aperian's CSR programs within the three prongs of the initiative: Corporate and NGO Partnerships, Environmental Action, and Community Outreach.
Corporate & NGO Partnerships
We partnered with Ernst & Young CSR Fellows Program to give assistance to entrepreneurs in developing countries, delivering training on a pro bono basis. We have also established a partnership with CARE, one of the world's largest humanitarian organizations, providing access to our web-based tools along with training and materials to support internal trainers in the delivery of pre-departure orientations for international assignees. These CARE assignees come from many different cultural backgrounds and are working in some of the world's most challenging locations.
Environmental Action
Our Environmental Action Group has grown from a concept to a functioning group of passionate individuals who have executed several key “grass roots” initiatives, created awareness and saved resources. The primary focus has been on "Reducing and Recycling." We conducted a company-wide “green” audit that led to setting up recycling bins in offices, establishing recycled paper as “standard” in the Americas region, and switching printers to duplex to reduce paper use. Through the audit, we learned that a large number of our employees are involved in "green" activities on their own. For example, many use alternative transportation such as walking, biking or utilizing public transportation, and participate in local recyling efforts in their homes and communities. Looking foward, we are working with local authorities in several cities around the world to move toward "Green Certification" of our various office locations.
Community Outreach
As part of the CSR initiative, our employee task force identified a range of activities aimed at contributing to the global communities in which we operate. The firm instituted a policy that offers paid time off for employees who serve as volunteers. Aperian donated money, time and services to organizations such as:
