Why it matters: Launched on Suffolk Day on Saturday, 21 June, the '175 Good Deeds for Suffolk' initiative sees employees undertaking everything from sponsored skydives to volunteering with nature reserves. Staff have already clocked up hundreds of volunteer hours with many more activities planned.
The details: Activities range from extreme challenges to practical community support. Some employees are taking on skydives for Suffolk Mind and obstacle races for Cancer Research UK, while others are working with the Dora Brown charity to transform homes for families in crisis.
The Society's 11 Suffolk branches are also engaging with local schools. The Ipswich and Ravenswood branches are sponsoring One Sixth Form College's performing arts department, enabling year-round student performances. Meanwhile, the Hadleigh branch will deliver careers and interview support at Thomas Gainsborough School.
Staff have donated 200 Easter eggs to children and provided essential supplies to Lighthouse Women's Aid and Emmaus Suffolk, supporting women fleeing domestic violence and those facing social isolation.
What's next: The Society is launching a financial education initiative for students aged 15-18 across Suffolk schools, alongside continuing fundraising activities including Brave the Shave for Macmillan Cancer Support.
What they're saying: Richard Norrington, CEO for Suffolk Building Society, said: "We wanted to celebrate our 175th anniversary in a way that gave back to the communities we serve. I've been very humbled to see how many of our wonderful staff have stepped up to help charities, schools, and vulnerable people in Suffolk, as community is at the very heart of what we do."
He added: "Throughout every chapter of our journey, we have remained true to our roots as a member-owned building society, always prioritising people over profits."
By the numbers: The campaign supports 25 organisations, including British Heart Foundation, Cancer Research UK, East Anglian Air Ambulance, NSPCC, Suffolk Wildlife Trust, and local schools across the county.
The bottom line: Suffolk Building Society is using its 175th anniversary to reinforce its community commitment, with every employee contributing to charitable causes across the county they serve.
