Think Global, Act Local: Cisco and Dimension Data Win ASAP Award for CSR Projects

We set out to do something big – with a belief that we could drive change and make a lasting impact in the world. To commemorate 25 years as business partners, Cisco and Dimension Data strived to find a unique way to pay it forward and make a difference.

What started out as a grand idea – to complete 25 community service projects across the globe – transformed into a worldwide, grassroots effort by our employees. And this week at the Association of Strategic Alliance Professionals (ASAP) Summit in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Cisco and Dimension Data were honored as winners of the Alliance for Corporate Social Responsibility for this work.

But all of this would not have been possible without the steadfast dedication and commitment of our employees. To call this effort “grassroots” is an understatement. Our employees brought an energized and passionate purpose to this mission. They rolled up their sleeves, recruited their colleagues, and organized projects – all to make a difference in their local communities. Over 260 employees from both companies participated in 10 different countries including Australia, India, Philippines, Singapore, South Africa, South Sudan, Switzerland, Thailand, UK, and U.S.

The fruits of their labor were tangible and real. The projects and the communities they served were diverse and focused on a wide variety of needs including improving education through technology, fighting hunger and homelessness, empowering youth, and much more. In Thailand, we assembled and donated bicycles to children living in remote regions who typically walk for hours to get to school. In South Africa, we delivered food to children at the Tumelo Home for the Mentally Handicapped. You can read about each of the 25 projects in this digital e-book.

Corporate Social Responsibility is a core tenet for both Cisco and Dimension Data. Whether we are protecting the rhino from poaching or giving back, we’re committed to making a difference for our customers and local communities and tackling global issues.

If you have ideas on how we can continue to pay it forward, I’d love to hear from you. Write a comment below or reach out on Twitter (@chrispanzeca).