SETTING AN EXAMPLE IN CSR

The WNS/AVIVA donor group pictured with their very happy village recipients

Rarely does one come across a corporate donor that wishes not only to contribute financially to a cause, but also to dedicate their time and care towards the long-term maintenance of the project. Yet, WNS (from AVIVA) are an example of exactly that.

Major Donor group, WNS/AVIVA, have greatly contributed to the welfare of the villagers through the creation of a 'mini-village' in Seenigama. Located not far beyond the 100 metre zone, this area was devastated by the ferocious waves that swept in on 26th December 2004. After the Tsunami, the WNS/AVIVA staff visited Seenigama on many occasions to determine where their assistance could be of most benefit.

WNS/AVIVA Village during the construction process

It was decided that they would fund the construction of a small community complex, including houses, shops and a community centre where residents could assist each other to rebuild their lives. Now complete, the new village is an enormous success. Comprising 10 houses, a Community Centre, a Post Office (a first for Seenigama!), a Grocery Store, a Salon (another first for Seenigama!), a Library and an Internet Café (yet another first for the village!), this communal living space is more than the residents could have ever dreamed.

Yet, WNS/AVIVA's involvement does not stop there. Now that the complex is complete, the staff at WNS wish to ensure that the welfare of the residents is not only maintained but continuously improved through workshops that their staff will personally hold every month in various areas, including workshops for children, store owners and the like.

The opening of WNS/AVIVA Village on
26th December 2005

Last Saturday, 21st January 2006, was the WNS/AVIVA group's first visit since the opening in December. The main purpose of this visit and subsequent visits is to monitor the progress of the village, including its stores and the community centre, as well as a focus on building relationships between the villagers, the Foundation of Goodness staff and WNS staff.

The day commenced with a meeting in the new Community Hall involving the villagers and WNS, who discussed the maintenance of the new complex as well as general feedback from the villagers regarding their experiences over the first few weeks. This was all very positive and it is clear that such meetings will be of great benefit to all involved.

The close netball match and the winning Seenigama team

Shortly following the meeting was an exciting netball match between the WNS staff and the Seenigama netball team held at Sri Sumangala Maha Vidayala school. After a close match, the Seenigama girls won the game with a score of 17 to 9.

Next was a softball cricket match held at Hikkaduwa between the WNS cricket team and the Seenigama team. A spectacular crowd attended and our Founder, Kushil Gunasekera, joined the batsmen in an incredible game of cricket. Seenigama batted first with 161 runs in 20 overs. Whilst WNS achieved 120 runs, Seenigama won the match by 41 runs.

Congratulations Seenigama! Once again, such victories are proof of the fantastic sportsmanship and leadership that the village youths have to offer! All teams made their way back to the new village via a parade from Galle Road, the winners triumphously holding their trophies for all to see. After their hard work, everyone was invited to a magnificent buffet lunch held by the WNS/AVIVA villagers in the Community Hall as but a small token of their appreciation. The WNS staff were completely blown away by the meals provided to them - many of them enjoyed their food so much they were piling up their plates!

The exciting cricket game and the Seenigama Captain receiving their trophy

After a thoroughly successful and enjoyable day, the WNS staff, Foundation staff and villagers vowed to make this a regular monthly event including more sports, which they plan to alternate between Seenigama and Colombo.

Our sincere thanks go out to all the WNS/AVIVA staff who were involved in the day as well as the keen viewers who cheered on the teams and added to the incredible atmosphere of the day. The Foundation staff and the villagers eagerly await the next lot of activities next month!

WNS/AVIVA are an inspiration and a true example of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) in action!