As part of UBP’s Corporate, Social and Responsibility (CSR) activities, Geneva colleagues were recently offered the opportunity to volunteer for a local soup kitchen.

This particular drive was organised by the charity Carrefour Rue & Coulou, working in partnership with Hospice général, the Geneva canton’s official social service provider and charitable organisation. Two groups from UBP, a total of some 20 people, went to Jardin de Montbrillant to help prepare and serve almost 600 meals to homeless people under the guidance of seasoned volunteers.

Upon arrival they got straight to it, putting their aprons on to start preparations for the three-course meal – soup or salad followed by meat and vegetables, and then dessert and fruit, with coffee to conclude. Our volunteers also laid the tables and made sure that all the dishes could be served in a timely manner.

Once everything was set up, they had a bit of spare time for a representative of the Carrefour-Rue & Coulou association to give them a brief presentation of how the organisation works and the support it offers.

They found out that the charity focuses on providing homeless and disadvantaged people not only with shelter, food, hygiene facilities, and healthcare, but also with leisure activities. The aim is to help them rebuild their lives and social connections through cultural activities, addressing both their primary and their social needs. The volunteers and social workers are dedicated to empowering marginalised individuals to regain their autonomy.

Our colleagues also learnt that all this is made possible with the help of cash donations from other charities such as Partage, as well as contributions and a helping hand from individuals and groups like these.

When the doors opened for lunch, our volunteers welcomed in a grateful and sociable gathering of people who, in addition to seeking something to eat and drink, and some respite from the cold, were happy for some companionship.

Carrefour-Rue & Coulou in figures :

Volunteering at this event, I was touched by the institution as such and deeply moved by the unwavering kindness and smiles of the staff from Carrefour-Rue & Coulou and the heartfelt gratitude of those receiving a warm meal. It was a powerful reminder of the impact kindness can have on both giver and receiver.

Alexandra Becker, Head of RFP, Institutional Clients