Social Commitment
As a responsible enterprise Recticel also tries to make its contribution to solutions for social problems which go beyond its pure business nature. In this context, initiatives are usually undertaken on a local level where the sites and/or the employees support certain charities, specific projects and/or local communities. The support given can vary from typical financial contributions to the provision of services and goods for these good causes.
RECTICEL OFFERS SUPPORT FOR THE HOMELESS IN BRUSSELS
Samusocial, an association for social emergency, announced the launch of two plans by the end of 2010: a Winter Plan for the homeless from the Brussels-Capital Region and a humanitarian plan for asylum seekers. Each of these plans was implemented in separate buildings that the Federal Buildings Agency made available to Samusocial.
The Winter Plan (Etterbeek) was able to accommodate 200 to 300 homeless people. On top of a shelter, they also got breakfast in the morning and a hot meal at night. They were also able to use the sanitairy facilities (shower, etc.). If needed, they could get medical and nursing attention on a voluntary basis by the Doctors of the World. There was only a night shelter from 20:30 hours on, which they were to leave again at eight o’clock in the morning.
In 2009 Samusocial decided to address to the private sector. The three main partners are Dexia (Bank), Belgacom (telecom) and Recticel. Recticel delivered free of charge the equivalent of 600 bed frames and mattresses. Also in 2011 and 2012, Recticel remains partner of Samusocial.
GOLD PARTNER OF NFTE (NETWORK FOR TEACHING ENTREPRENEURSHIP)
In 2011, Recticel became Gold Partner of NFTE, whose mission it is to initiate youth into the world of the entrepreneurship and give them the spirit of the entrepreneur.
NFTE tries to revitalize the youth who have had difficulty fitting into the conventional business world or the formal education system. First by identifying an individual’s area of interest, then by developing and preparing a business plan together. This will transform what they like to do into a profitable business venture, while taking into account the reality of the markets. The program focuses on the improvement of academic, business, technological and general life skills. Recticel's management thinks this is a perfect add on to the Samusocial project. NFTE starts where Samusocial ends, aimed at youngsters: they inspire young people and encourage them to create their own business utilizing each of their individual skills and approaches to life. They help them find employment and remain motivated to do their best. Since the startup of NFTE in Belgium in 1998, a total number of classes of 189 was given with 1 884 participants. 91% of those participants completed the program and obtained their certificate. 48% obtained employment or started their own business. Recticel is proud to be able to take up the Gold partnership, with about 25 other companies.