The Institute of Export & International Trade (IOE&IT) is proud of its work in promoting trade as a force for good across the world.
However, the work that IOE&IT does with local causes sometimes flies under the radar.
In celebration of Charity Day, the IOE&IT Daily Update spoke to Samantha Ingrey, an IOE&IT executive assistant and the coordinator behind many of its charitable activities, to learn more.
DU: Could you explain what kind of local charitable work the IOE&IT do?
SI: “We’re a registered charity and we do a lot of work promoting trade as a force for good and boosting trade links around the world.
“But IOE&IT also works locally to help people and does a lot to help raise funds for local causes.
“It’s a big focus of ours and we’re really proud of the work that IOE&IT are doing.”
DU: What’s the big set piece in terms of fundraising?
SI: “Every year, IOE&IT team members participate in the annual Peterborough Dragon Boat Race to raise money for Sue Ryder, a charity that supports people undergoing palliative care and their loved ones.
“This past June, it raised over £612, comfortably beating the target of £500. Staff from all over the UK come down to participate or cheer people on during the race.
“It’s also a great chance to get out and join in with the local community in Cambridgeshire.”
DU: Sounds fun. Is there anything else like this?
SI: “These kinds of activities are great for teambuilding and for supporting good causes, so we really want to see more of them.
“Last year, a team that included director general Marco Forgione and executive editor William Barns-Graham, took to the West Highland Way to raise funds for the Disasters Emergency Committee, all as part of the ‘96 miles for freedom’ campaign.
“The team already have a plan in place for the next walk, this time to take on the Three Peaks Challenge.”
DU: What about wider team participation?
SI: “Each member of staff has the right to two yearly charity days that can be used to volunteer for worthy causes.
“We’ve had people join litter-picking initiatives, go into care homes, work with food banks and clean up graffiti.
“At the annual IOE&IT End of Year Conference, staff are encouraged to donate toys on behalf of Little Miracles and the IOE&IT will match any donations.
“Last year, over 120 Christmas gifts were collected this way for disadvantaged children.”
DU: Is there any work that IOE&IT does to help young people?
SI: “We have a work experience programme for school kids around the Cambridgeshire area.
“Over the summer, four students from local schools joined us for a week each to get experience of working life and learn some valuable skills at a very young age.
“We’re happy to report that this first cohort took a lot from their time with us. One already secured a spot on an apprenticeship scheme, and another got a part-time job to support them through their education. Both of them used their work experience in the interviews to get their positions.”