The Koç Volunteers Movement facilitated significant support by enabling the participation of Koç Group employees in activities in earthquake-affected areas and Hope Cities. More than 1000 employees from 46 Group companies took part in volunteering activities and various projects were carried out in Hope Cities.
The activities organized spanned a wide range from guidance seminars prior to central exams to welcoming events and to the activities of the drama clubs of the Group companies. Koç Volunteers continue volunteering to support the social life in Hope Cities.
“Women’s Solidarity Centers” operating in partnership with UN Women and civil society organizations incorporate spaces such as textile and cooking workshops to increase women’s participation in the economy and help them build on their existing skills. These centers also offer counseling and training services to support women’s recovery processes. Women have the opportunity to generate income by improving their existing skills in the workshops at the centers.
Customer Service Centers established by Group companies provide the opportunity to work and to build a career while living in Hope Cities. The establishment of customer service centers in Hope Cities has enabled many young people affected by the earthquake to go through the application and training process and secure full-time employment. Hope Cities offer not just temporary settlement but also employment opportunities, thus providing time. Youth for individuals’ empowerment.
While Hope Cities is an example of rapid urban planning to meet post-disaster housing needs, it has also been a project involving planning, procurement, purchasing, logistics, operations, coordination, partnerships, and the contributions of thousands of employees through the Koç Volunteers Movement.