A morning that brings people together: working together at eden21

Hagenbuch

Successfully realized

Social issues

Bright sunshine, summery temperatures and a shared goal. During a corporate volunteering event at the nonprofit organization eden21 in Hagenbuch near Winterthur, a team of motivated volunteers traded their office routines for gardening gloves and worked together on a sustainable project.

The volunteers helped prepare planting beds for tea herbs, plant seedlings and water the young plants as part of the morning spent together. The work was physically demanding, but at the same time a welcome opportunity to leave the daily grind behind and actively support the sustainable work of the NGO eden21. The project combines gardening, organic production and social engagement centered on the cultivation of herbs and flowers for local organic teas.

“What motivated us most was the opportunity to make a meaningful impact as a team and to deliberately take time out of our workday to contribute to society. The tasks were varied and provided a real sense of accomplishment. After just a few hours, it was clear what we could achieve together. It was precisely the immediate results of our work that made the effort feel especially rewarding. We started the day expecting to make a practical contribution, gain new perspectives and strengthen our team spirit. Not only were these expectations met – they were often exceeded”.

Despite the summer heat, the mood remained positive throughout the project. The participants supported one another, divided up the work among themselves and overcame challenges as a team.

“We realized how well we support one another as a team. The open and respectful atmosphere played a big part in helping us overcome the challenges positively together”.

For eden21, such volunteer projects are far more than just practical help. The project was founded with the vision of opening up different opportunities for participation and fostering connections. Volunteer projects help raise awareness of eden21’s work and provide valuable support for the project’s day-to-day operations.

“Connecting with volunteers is an opportunity to promote diversity in society. We are also very grateful for the hands-on support we receive in our work”. (Tamara Pabst, eden21)

The team was particularly impressed by the passion and conviction of the project leaders.

“It was impressive to see how much dedication and heart and soul go into the initiative – and how contagious that enthusiasm is”.

This effort demonstrates how corporate volunteering brings people together, strengthens shared purpose and at the same time makes a lasting contribution to community projects. Sometimes just a few hours are enough to make a difference – in the field, within the team and far beyond.