In June 2008, Gruner + Jahr launched “G+J Commitment”, a corporate volunteering program that underscores the company’s willingness to embrace its responsibility to society. “G+J Commitment” is designed to encourage G+J’s executive and employees to volunteer for a good cause. Getting personally involved not only helps the recipient, but also expands the volunteer’s own horizons. It sharpens awareness of public welfare and understanding of social predicaments. In this way, it bridges the gap between companies and the community they do business in.

The initiative consists of several elements. For each day they take off to volunteer for their project, employees can apply for another day of paid leave (up to a maximum of three days). In addition to their volunteering, employees can also apply for a grant to cover material costs (up to 1111 euros). And for employees who not only volunteer but also donate their own money for a project, G+J will make a matching donation of up to three times the amount (3333 euros max.). The “G+J Commitment” Committee determines how much money is granted and to whom. The committee members include representatives from the HR department, the works council and Corporate Communications, as well as executive employees. Any employee currently in an ongoing employment relationship with G+J can apply simply by writing an e-mail.