When People Matter: Achievements Through Collective Commitment in 2024

As the year draws to a close, the holiday season offers a moment of reflection. In 2024, BAWAG was driven by a deep sense of solidarity and responsibility. Together with our partners and volunteers, we have made meaningful strides in supporting those in need, fostering education, and advancing environmental initiatives. Explore the impactful projects we have realized through sincere collaboration.

Samariterbund Vienna:

Samariter Kitchen Soup Drive – Standing Together Against Hunger and Poverty

Since 2023, BAWAG employee teams have been preparing warm, nourishing meals for those impacted by poverty in a professional kitchen located in Vienna's 20th district, in partnership with Samariterbund Vienna. Through this initiative, homeless individuals, refugees, and others facing hardship receive not only sustenance but also vital social connections.

Impact: Over 40,000 meals served, with more than 700 dedicated volunteers involved.
BAWAG’s Contribution: Donations and corporate volunteering – Teams of up to 6 employees regularly contribute their time and efforts.

LEObox – Fostering Education and Healthy Nutrition for Children

In 2024, BAWAG introduced LEObox, a nutritious snack box created for children participating in Samariterbund’s LernLEOs program, which is dedicated to supporting children from low-income families. Through Samariterbund, these children benefit from free tutoring, while BAWAG provides weekly healthy snack boxes, carefully prepared by our teams.

Launch: 2024, with 23 teams involved.
Objective: To empower children with both educational support and a healthy nutritional foundation.

“Secret Santa Challenge”– Spreading Joy for Displaced and Poverty-Affected Children

Since 2022, BAWAG has been fulfilling the wishes of children from refugee families, including those from Ukraine, through thoughtful, personalized gifts such as toys and vouchers.

2024: 70 children received gifts.
Impact: Bringing hope and happiness to children in difficult circumstances.

Ocean Blue:

A Commitment to Protecting Our Environment

Since 2022, BAWAG has taken an active role in supporting initiatives that protect marine ecosystems.

BAWAG Community Days for Environmental Protection:
Employees have the opportunity to participate in Community Days dedicated to corporate volunteering and environmental conservation.
Collaboration with Ocean Blue:
In 2024, BAWAG partnered with Ocean Blue to organize three Community Days in Vienna and Salzburg, enhancing environmental awareness among employees.

Children's University Vienna:

Promoting Financial Education

BAWAG is committed to cultivating financial literacy among young learners through workshops, seminars, and online resources, preparing them for future financial decisions. We also work to enhance access to quality education through partnerships with educational institutions.

Collaboration with the Children’s Office of the University of Vienna:
BAWAG supports this office to ensure children from all backgrounds have the opportunity to access education and foster a lifelong love of learning.
Financial Education through Interactive Quizzes:
In April and July, we engaged children with educational financial quizzes at schools and at the Children's University Vienna.
Summer Activities for Children’s University Groups:
BAWAG employees mentored groups during summer activities, providing valuable, real-world insights.

A Rapid Response to Natural Disasters

When disaster strikes, e.g., floods in 2024, BAWAG Group demonstrates swift and decisive action, providing critical support to communities in distress.

Provision of Resources for Humanitarian Aid:
BAWAG swiftly allocated resources to meet the immediate needs of those affected by the flooding.
Collaboration with Humanitarian Organizations:
In the aftermath of floods and other crises, BAWAG partners with humanitarian organizations to deliver immediate financial aid and contribute to long-term recovery efforts.

Women’s Shelters:

Providing Support for Women Affected by Violence

In Austria, women’s shelters are often the first sanctuary for women and children fleeing domestic violence. Each year, 3,000 women seek refuge and a path to safety.

Sustainable Partnerships with Women’s Shelters:
Through the initiative "BAWAG Supports Women’s Shelters," we build enduring partnerships with shelters across Austria to support women in need.
Local Engagement by Branch Employees:
BAWAG staff members work closely with women’s shelters to understand their unique needs and provide meaningful assistance.
Support Through Goods and Financial Donations:
BAWAG aids in the recovery process for women affected by violence, offering starter kits, in-kind donations, and financial support to help them rebuild their lives.

Other Noteworthy Projects:

House of Diakonie Stuttgart: SÜDWESTBANK collaborates with EVA – House of Diakonie Stuttgart / Diaconal Center to assemble "emergency kits" for those in need.
Horse Wilderness Project: Gardening for a good cause, providing therapeutic activities for children.
CARE Austria: Workshops designed to engage and empower young people.
VinziRast in the Country: A project initiated by BAWAG teams focused on gardening and providing support for individuals in need.

Our 2024 Year Review