Through its Volunteer Paid Time Off (VPTO) program, Santander Consumer USA (SC) encourages its employees to give back by volunteering their time at local organizations during the workweek.
SC summer interns recently brought a twist to the program.
As part of National Intern Day, a group of 29 SC summer associates got the chance to volunteer at Walnut Place, a senior living community center in Dallas that’s affiliated with a nonprofit called The Senior Source.
“It was a rewarding experience to help people who are alone in life and to see the impact we made on their day,” said Jack H., an Operations Support intern.
The Friendly Visitors Program, one of the many opportunities offered by The Senior Source, provides companionship to isolated nursing home residents, including those at Walnut Place. Whether it’s arts and crafts, reading to residents, or visiting one-on-one, every volunteer has the chance to make a difference in someone’s life.
That’s where Santander interns came in.
Throughout their special day, the interns took part in a variety of activities including organizing storage closets, chatting with the residents, making in-room visits and playing games such as hangman and bingo.
“It was an eye-opening experience and one I am grateful Santander offered to our intern class,” said Yuri R., a Project Management and Analytics intern.
Thanks to the VPTO program, the intern class was able to experience the philanthropic spirit of SC while producing positive results within the community.
“It was nice knowing I could spend my time helping someone else and see the impact it made on their day,” said Julie M., an Information Technology intern.
For nearly 60 years, The Senior Source has provided aging services that “assist, protect and connect older adults to resources, opportunities and independence.” Walnut Place has been committed for 35 years to providing engaging activities that enrich the lives of its residents as well as quality services including independent living, assisted living, rehabilitation, skilled nursing and memory care.
