Since 2007, Sand Dams Worldwide has been incredibly fortunate to receive the generous support of NewField IT, when the company began making regular gifts as part of a carbon offsetting scheme.

Sustainable impact

In addition, NewField employee Richard Tyrrell took part in a sand dam expedition to Kenya in September 2011, where he joined a group of volunteers to build a sand dam with the Kumina Wauni self-help group.

Today, Richard is still a dedicated supporter and committed ambassador for Sand Dams Worldwide.

Richard explains: “NewField IT has enjoyed a strong relationship with Sand Dams Worldwide [formerly Excellent Developmet] since 2007, originally supporting the charity through quarterly donations to help offset our employees’ CO2 production caused through daily working life.

“We truly believe that the work that the charity is engaged in not only benefits the communities they are working with but also invests in the future of these regions with the possibility of eventually having a more global impact through their sustainable land management programmes.”

A first-hand experience

Since Richard took part in the sand dam expedition, the company has not only increased their financial support, they have also pledged to send one employee to volunteer every year. In September 2014, Claudia Stoeber joined our group of expeditioners to help the Athiani self-help group to build their sand dam. She told us:

“The impact of a sand dam is visible everywhere around [the community]. People can grow food, and animals can visit the water holes, the whole area appears a lot greener around the dam than in other areas without water supplies. The difference is striking!”

The benefits are mutual

Like Richard, Claudia also shared her experience with her team back in the office. It was incredibly valuable for her colleagues to hear a first-hand account of what a sand dam is, how it is built and the impact it has on a community. The trip itself left Claudia with a memorable experience:

“It was a unique and fascinating experience which gave me an insight into the environmental and life-changing impact that sand dams have on dryland communities... I feel I have learnt more in one week there than from one year reading articles about the topic.”

Our thanks go to Richard, Claudia and the team at NewField IT – we hope to be working with them for many more years to come.

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