A county Armagh business picked up a prestigious gong at a Belfast awards ceremony for their dedication to the community.
Milford-based Homecare Independent Living (HCIL), which provides a unique mix of integrated services, including health and social care, housing and support services, stood out the most among judges for actively aiding, engaging and supporting communities and individuals with a range of initiatives designed to create a long-lasting impact.
Awarded in Belfast, the Commitment to the Community category recognises companies that have strategies for growth whilst achieving excellence in its commitment to the communities within which it operates.
HCIL Chief Executive, Mairead, Mackle said: “We believe that our community needs good local businesses to thrive and that thriving communities are a good place to do business.
“This award is recognition for everyone involved and for their commitment to the range of community-based initiatives which we successfully deliver.”
HCIL independently operates the iCare charity, which it founded to empower communities across Ireland to create a better world and it is run entirely by its staff and over 300 volunteers from local schools and sports clubs. Since its inception, the company has raised more than £250,000.
Mairead added: “Our CSR strategy is “to use the power of our business to create a better world”. Our aim is to improve the lives of older people, eliminate social isolation as much as possible by encouraging community participation. 100% of proceeds raised from events and initiatives we deliver are used throughout the year to help people in our communities through a programme called ‘iCare Wishes'”
More than 150 individuals and families have been granted an ‘iCare Wish’ so far. Staff also volunteer for a schools programme which involves mentoring business studies students and helping them gain new skills.
The overall awards were sponsored by Harbinson Mulholland. Category sponsors included Ulster University, SSE Airtricity, Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, Mills Selig and Reactive Recruitment.
