GJK Facility Services: Impacting Change with “GJK Giving Back”
“GJK Giving Back” Program
At GJK Facility Services, social responsibility isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a way of life. Since its humble beginnings as a family-owned commercial cleaning business in 1985, GJK has been devoted to making a positive impact on the communities it serves. With the launch of the “GJK Giving Back” program, this commitment has reached new heights, enabling the company to expand its philanthropic efforts and foster meaningful change.
Partnering with the Lighthouse Foundation: A Beacon of Hope
One of the cornerstone partnerships of the “GJK Giving Back” program is with the Lighthouse Foundation, an organization dedicated to providing safe homes and therapeutic care for children and young adults affected by neglect, homelessness, and abuse. The Lighthouse Foundation’s impact is profound: eight out of ten participants never return to the streets, transforming the lives of over 1,000 young people.
“We are proud to launch our social impact program, GJK Giving Back, and work alongside Lighthouse Foundation to create caring communities where young people can heal and thrive,” said Elias Stamas, CEO of GJK Facility Services. This partnership is a testament to GJK’s mission to address critical social challenges and create lasting positive change.
A Legacy of Philanthropy
GJK’s history of giving back is long and impactful. Over the years, the company has:
- Donated $20,000 to the Kids Cancer Project Australia.
- Contributed an additional $10,000 at the 2022 FMA Gala Award.
- Supported the construction of Australia’s first home for young women through a $100,000 donation by founder George Stamas.
These contributions reflect a deep commitment to improving lives and supporting causes that align with GJK’s values.
Beyond Monetary Donations: Empowering Communities
The “GJK Giving Back” program extends beyond financial contributions. It leverages GJK’s expertise and resources to foster shared value partnerships with organizations like:
- The Bridge of Hope
- Epworth Foundation
- Hunger Project
- SuperTee
These collaborations aim to address diverse challenges, from improving health outcomes to tackling food insecurity, showcasing the versatility of GJK’s philanthropic efforts.
Supporting Employees to Make a Difference
A unique aspect of the “GJK Giving Back” program is its focus on employee involvement. By enabling staff to participate in volunteering initiatives, the program fosters a sense of purpose and unity within the organization. This approach not only amplifies GJK’s impact but also strengthens its culture of giving and teamwork.
Driving Change Through Innovation
GJK’s commitment to social impact is deeply rooted in its innovative approach to business. In 2003, the company played a pivotal role in the Public Tenant Employment Program (PTEP), which empowered long-term unemployed residents of public housing estates to break the cycle of welfare dependency. By incorporating a clause that required hiring at least 35% of employees from these communities, GJK demonstrated how businesses can be a force for good.
The success of this initiative was recognized with several prestigious awards, including the H Bruce Russell International Global Innovators Award in 2006 and the Australian Business Award for Community Contribution in 2011.
Championing Indigenous Empowerment<
Another standout achievement for GJK is the establishment of GJK Indigenous Solutions (GJKIS) in 2017. This joint venture, spearheaded by mentoring Indigenous entrepreneur Jasmine Newman, has become a thriving, female-owned business with 51% Indigenous employees. GJKIS’s accomplishments include winning the Aboriginal Business of the Year award at the 2020 Defence Industry Awards, further cementing GJK’s commitment to creating opportunities for underrepresented communities.
A Culture of Compassion and Responsibility
For GJK, giving back isn’t just a corporate initiative—it’s woven into the company’s DNA. The “GJK Giving Back” program is a natural evolution of the company’s longstanding efforts to make a difference. From supporting vulnerable children to empowering marginalized communities, GJK exemplifies what it means to be a socially responsible business.
As Elias Stamas aptly puts it, “Giving back and doing good has always been part of GJK’s DNA… and this program just takes this to the next level, enabling our employees to participate and give back too.”
The Road Ahead: Continuing the Mission
With a workforce of over 2,500 employees and a national footprint, GJK is uniquely positioned to drive meaningful change on a large scale. The “GJK Giving Back” program is not just about addressing immediate needs but also about creating sustainable solutions that have a lasting impact.
GJK’s philanthropic journey is far from over. The company remains committed to exploring new opportunities to collaborate with like-minded organizations and expand its reach. Whether it’s supporting groundbreaking cancer research, empowering Indigenous entrepreneurs, or providing safe havens for children in need, GJK is steadfast in its mission to build a brighter future for all.
Conclusion
Through its “GJK Giving Back” program, GJK Facility Services exemplifies what it means to be a socially responsible business. From supporting vulnerable communities to fostering innovation and empowerment, GJK is setting a benchmark for corporate philanthropy. As a trusted provider of commercial cleaning services in Sydney, Brisbane, and across Australia, GJK continues to demonstrate how businesses can drive meaningful change while delivering exceptional service.
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