In 2011, Institutional Sales at ERSTE-Sparinvest, under the leadership of Mr Archim Arnhof, decided to donate an amount to social institutions instead of giving Christmas presents to customers and to support the respective organisation through volunteer work. Employees from other areas of Erste Sparinvest also take part in this campaign, with around 15 colleagues - including members of the management team - working together for a social cause.

The following activities have been organised in this way since 2011:

• 2011: Sterntalerhof - gardening, cleaning the façade
• 2012: Caritas 2nd crypt - colouring rooms for the homeless
• 2013: Caritas Haus Hermes - colouring in
• 2014: Kolping House - Entertainment and games in the retirement home
• 2015: Wiener Hilfswerk Neighbourhood Centre 2 - Punch and Judy stage and backdrops
• 2016: Institute for the Welfare of the Blind, 1140 Vienna - Gardening and renovation of the biotope

As a follow-up, customers then receive a mailing with a photo gallery and the message that the Christmas promise was kept. This campaign is very popular with those involved.

And the positive feedback from customers reinforces their personal commitment.