Ricoh brightens up the lives of the Sunnyfield Association

The donation is the latest in a string of long-standing support which has stretched over the course of the last ten years, accumulating to $750 000 in total. Ricoh's latest donation is directed to the Ricoh Trust. Established in February 2006, the trust will help fund a five-year development program plan that aims to improve the lives of those living with a disability. The trust will specifically support the 'Integrated Living Program' which focuses on purchasing and modifying housing properties to meet the diverse needs of individuals so that they can live near their community and place of employment.

When it came to choosing a charity, Ricoh were impressed by the services that the Sunnyfield Association provided for those with intellectual disabilities. "By the mid-90s, Ricoh was well established on Sydney's northern beaches and decided to support a charity based in the local area," said Nigel Shepherd, managing director of Ricoh. "Sunnyfield offered a unique opportunity to make a meaningful difference to the lives of people with an intellectual disability by encouraging their independence through work and by establishing group residences in neighbouring suburbs."

Part of the work that Sunnyfield residents do is also intertwined with the printing industry, where they undertake training on collating, packaging and mailing systems. Ricoh has in turn used them to complete some of its work in direct mail, which according to Norman Koslowski, marketing manager, provides positive experiences in the workforce.

Shepherd said that the establishment of the Ricoh Trust continued a ten-year partnership with the Sunnyfield Association. "Looking forward, Ricoh is proud to be a strong supporter of the Sunnyfield Association's exciting plans for its Integrated Living Program," he said.


Pictured: Ricoh managing director Nigel Shepherd hands a cheque to Sunnyfield chairman Len Thompson, with two Sunnyfield residents.






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