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Giving something back
At Zen, we are dedicated to making a positive impact in our local community. At the heart of our ethos is a deep-rooted belief in giving back. Each year, we proudly support a local charity, which is voted for by our people.
But that's not all, we also actively engage with local initiatives, events, and projects that contribute to the wellbeing and development of our community, helping to make a difference to the lives of those around us.
Our community
Chief Executive, Richard Tang established Zen in his hometown of Rochdale in 1995. In its initial stages, the company depended on local businesses for its survival and expansion.
Despite the company's growth and widespread recognition, Richard Tang and the entire Zen team remain dedicated to giving back. Whether this is through charitable initiatives, community events, or partnerships with local organisations, Zen is always looking for ways to enrich the lives of Rochdale residents.
For Zen, success isn't measured by financial prosperity, but by the positive impact it can make on our people, the environment and the local community and charities.
Community Initiatives
Rochdale Ambassadors
We have committed money and resources to the Rochdale Ambassadors scheme, a collaborative effort aimed at enhancing the reputation and economic prospects of Rochdale. The aim is to foster community pride, attract investment and businesses, and improve the quality of life for residents.
Working with local children
Building connections with local schools and colleges is a vital component of our commitment to empowering young people. Through our initiatives, we aim to provide then with the essential skills and experiences they'll need as they leave school or college.
Rochdale Circle
Supporting Rochdale Circle, a group that helps local residents enjoy a flourishing, independent later life, we've hosted a birthday celebration and Christmas lunch at our head office in Rochdale. The events are always well-received, and our team of volunteers enjoy it too!
Friends and Family Week
We dedicate an entire week to welcoming our friends and family into the Zen office, to experience life at Zen first-hand. It's a delightful blend of fun and meaningful discussions, emphasising the importance of wellbeing and a healthy work-life balance.
Kids Code Club
Every summer we welcome the children of our people to join us for a great opportunity to learn and explore STEM activities, from our Dash and Dot robots and Microbits for the younger kids, to learning to code and how technology is used to run our business for the older kids.
Business Incubator
In 2015 Richard Tang set up the incubator scheme to help people at Zen to set up their own business and turn their ideas into reality. Richard provides financial and practical support, free office space, as well as expert guidance to help them succeed in the business world.
Giving something back to the local community and charities is extremely important to us at Zen. We care about our community and want to make a positive impact, which is why we give everyone at Zen two paid volunteering days each year.
In supporting last year's charity Bleakholt Animal Sanctuary, our people devoted their time to take part in activities such as walking the dogs, assisting in grounds maintenance, and taking part in fundraising events like Zen Nevis, where our people climbed the spiral staircase at Zen's head office.
Over the year we collectively raised an impressive £21,506.52, this was through our activities and Zen’s commitment to match the funds we raised. This outstanding contribution demonstrates our commitment to supporting local charities and our passion of giving back. Through volunteering efforts like these, we not only uplift those in need, but bring a sense of camaraderie and purpose among our people, reinforcing the values that define us as a business.
This year's charity
Every year our people vote to choose which charity they'd like to support. This year we're proud to be supporting Andy’s Man Club.
Zen is committed to promoting mental health and wellbeing, and Andy's Man Club, provides a safe space for men to openly discuss their emotions and challenges. We recognise the critical importance of addressing mental health issues and breaking down the stigma of men’s mental health. This is why at Zen we have a dedicated team of Mental Health Ambassadors and Zen’s Man Club which supports all our people with physical, emotional and mental wellbeing.
Charity events
MARCH 24
Zen Sleep Out: Shedding light on Mental Health and Homelessness
In March we hosted a sleep out at our Sandbrook Park office, rallying support for Andy’s Man Club, our chosen charity dedicated to providing mental health support for men across the UK.
The charity event saw a number of our colleagues bracing the frosty weather to help raise awareness and highlight the critical link between mental health challenges and homelessness. By supporting Andy’s Man Club, Zen aims to raise awareness, combat stigma and raise much needed funds so that they can continue to provide essential resources for those in need. Hear from one of our sleep-out volunteers on what it was really like. You can still donate via our Just Giving Page.
Up coming events
JULY 14 2024
Family Forest Fun Run for Andy's Man Club
We’re getting ready to lace up our running shoes and join the excitement in support of Andys Man Club in the annual running event at Delamere Forest on Sunday, 14 July 2024.
It's a day designed for everyone of all abilities. Little ones can dash through the woods in the kids' 2km fun run, where fancy dress is not just encouraged, but celebrated (all for just £5 and adults can tag along for free). All runners who cross the finish line will receive a well-deserved finisher's medal. For those craving a bigger challenge, there's the adrenaline-pumping 10km run or the ultimate test of endurance, the half marathon.
But it's not just about the running – they’ll also be festival atmosphere with entertainment galore for all ages. If you would like to be part of something incredible, you can sign up now – and join our team and many other to help make a difference!
Volunteering
We believe in the power of giving back to our communities, which is why we give every member of our team two paid volunteering days each year. This initiative reflects our commitment to supporting charitable organisations and worthwhile causes that make a positive impact on society.
So whether it's painting, tidying up a garden, taking dogs for a walk or climbing Zen-Nevis if it helps the local community or raises much needed funds for our chosen charity – we’re in!
By creating a culture of compassion and social responsibility, we not only strengthen our connection to the communities we serve, but also embody the values that define Zen as a socially conscious and purpose-driven business. Check out some of our volunteering pictures below.
By creating a culture of compassion and social responsibility, we not only strengthen our connection to the communities we serve, but also embody the values that define Zen as a socially conscious and purpose-driven business. Check out some of our volunteering pictures below.
