Barclays is just one of the employers offering staff the opportunity to volunteer with Destination Dreams, a scheme that offers staff the opportunity to support children battling life-threatening conditions.
The global banking group actively promotes the volunteering initiative, which is organised by charity Caudwell Children, to its employees.
A spokesperson from the wealth and investment management division of Barclays, said: “Volunteering on the Destination Dreams trip has been an extraordinary experience for many of our employees and something incredibly special for them to be part of.
“Each year, those involved return with an overwhelming feeling of achievement and pride. It really is a truly inspirational experience, which has an incredible impact on their professional and personal lives.”
The Destination Dreams initiative, which was launched in 2007, has helped more than 200 families enjoy a fully-supported trip to Florida, with days out at Disney World, Universal Studios and SeaWorld.
Caudwell Children trains each successful volunteer in disability awareness to help them understand what to expect and techniques that prove useful in all areas of life.
Trudi Beswick, chief executive at Caudwell Children, said: “Having volunteers support our Destination Dreams trip is crucial; it simply could not take place without them.
“By partnering with organisations that offer their staff these volunteering opportunities, we can help provide a unique opportunity that benefits all of those involved.
“Staff become more motivated and aware of disability, and learn new skills, while organisations are able to achieve some of the corporate social responsibility (CSR) objectives they already have in place.
“Each year the feedback from our volunteers is exceptionally positive, which is reflected in their wish to return year-on-year. For 2012, we hope more organisations will see the benefits Destination Dreams offers and will present the opportunity to their staff, helping the charity to continue making these dreams come true.”
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