MetLife today announced it has renewed its partnership with Special Olympics and Habitat for Humanity to provide employees across its Europe, Middle East & Africa (EMEA) markets with the opportunity to volunteer in community projects.
MetLife’s 4,000 employees in 26 EMEA countries have been invited to participate in activities with one of the organisations during the region’s Community Week which starts in mid-May. Employees will be able to volunteer at a Special Olympics event to play sport with young people with intellectual disabilities or support local Habitat for Humanity initiatives to build or renovate buildings in disadvantaged areas.
The initiative has been funded by MetLife Foundation, the philanthropic arm of MetLife. MetLife Foundation has a long tradition of supporting initiatives that engage MetLife volunteers in activities that improve quality of life and increase opportunities for the underserved.
Dirk Ostijn, Head of EMEA, MetLife, said: “We are delighted to be able to build on our strong, multi-year partnership with Habitat for Humanity and Special Olympics. More than 750 employees in over 20 markets across EMEA volunteered last year and were clear that they want to do more this year. Community Week offers all of us a fantastic opportunity to give something back to the community we work in.”
Mary Davis, CEO Special Olympics, added: “Volunteers are the backbone of the Special Olympics movement. It is through their enthusiasm and commitment that we are able to celebrate every Special Olympics athlete and build more inclusive communities. We are so thrilled to once again welcome MetLife employees throughout Europe and the Middle East during this year’s Community week engagements.”
Torre Nelson, vice president for Habitat for Humanity International – Europe, Middle East, Africa said: “MetLife’s annual Community Week shines a crucial light on affordable housing issues in Europe and the Middle East. Their volunteers help families in need of decent affordable housing build strength and stability through shelter.”