VWDS charting new roads of impact

When was the last time you stopped for a moment and thought,
“How lucky am I to have a place to stay tonight?”
“How lucky am I to work in a great place?”
“How lucky am I to have food on my table?”

Maybe it was weeks ago, months ago, or even never? The reality is that thousands of people, both around the world and right here in Portugal, wonder daily where their next meal will come from or where will they sleep that night.

The world moves so fast, and with so many distractions and responsibilities, we often take these things for granted. But in reality, we are part of a fortunate group. That’s why helping others is not only a way to express gratitude for what we have, but it also feeds our soul, body, and mind. There’s an energizing feeling that comes from contributing to something bigger without expecting anything in return. At least that’s how I feel since the first time I volunteered, back when I was a teenager and I discovered that incredible feeling of how a small action can deeply impact other people’s lives.   

Because helping others is part of the values here at VWDS, on the 18th and 19th of June, 97 enthusiastic volunteers from our VWDS family dedicated their efforts to assist with daily operations, including storage management, food packaging, and organizing donated goods at the headquarters of Banco Alimentar. This Portuguese organization is dedicated to fighting hunger and food waste by collecting food and distributing it to those in need across the community. 

But we didn’t just lend our hands; we also managed to collect an impressive 293 kg of donated food, significantly contributing to the resources available for those in need. In addition to our hands-on involvement, the company donated 5 euros per volunteer to support Banco Alimentar’s mission.

When I think back on this activity, it becomes clearer that our group effort went beyond the help provided on those two days; it also served to build a sense of belonging. No matter how tiny, every act of kindness contributes to a bigger wave of positive change. And it is at these moments that we realize that while we are helping others, we are also boosting our own lives in enormous ways.

I couldn’t be prouder of our entire team for the dedication, support, and energy over two fantastic days. It was amazing to see people from different backgrounds working eagerly toward one goal: charting new roads of impact.