The pandemic and the lockdowns that followed have been particularly harsh on some countries, including Colombia. O-I is donating to a new initiative spearheaded by ProAntioquia, a longstanding private foundation in Colombia. The new initiative aims to help groups hit hardest by the pandemic to enter the work force.
ProAntioquia was founded in 1975 and is well respected for leading strategic development initiatives in the Colombian state of Antioquia as well as other regions in the country. Their mission is to create sustainable social solutions by enhancing education and providing opportunities to underserved people and families.
“This organization works toward sustainable progress. It’s well managed and well recognized, even outside the country, for being successful for what they set out to accomplish,” explains Alejandro Gomez, O-I Andean Country Group Financial Director. “O-I shares their sustainable values.”
COVID-19 had a particularly large impact on employment for women and younger workers in Colombia. The foundation started a new initiative to provide mentoring to as many as 6,000 potential workers in those groups, as well as create 2,000 new jobs. The initiative is backed by a business alliance of companies that are contributing in different ways. O-I is joining the business alliance by making a financial contribution equal to $30,000 USD.
“We want to be part of the solution that our country needs,” explains Monica Franco, O-I Andean Country Group Sustainability Leader. ”Joining this alliance is a way to build together for the social development with more inclusion and opportunities.”
At O-I, our sustainability vision includes creating sustainable communities where our employees live and where we operate. We have long supported ProAntioquia’s ongoing initiatives, and we are invested in the foundation’s mission to enrich people, communities, and economies through employment.
