At Kaplan, we believe that teamwork and community spirit reach far beyond the workplace. Everyone working at Kaplan is encouraged to take 15 hours of paid volunteering leave each year.
This year, our Marketing and Insights department dedicated their volunteering hours to supporting communities in Greater Manchester, and the impact was fantastic.
Making a difference at the Society for Abandoned Animals
Members of our Digital and Product Marketing teams headed to the Society for Abandoned Animals in Sale, Manchester, ready to lend a hand and make a difference.
The Society for Abandoned Animals is a local charity dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming cats and rabbits that are unwanted or abandoned. The sanctuary provides essential care, including medical treatment and socialisation, to ensure each animal has the best chance of finding a loving, permanent home.
Equipped with brooms, gloves, and plenty of energy, the team got to work cleaning and organising the site’s storage areas and main arena - all in preparation for the sanctuary’s summer fair, a vital fundraiser that supports the care of its rescued animals.
Once the hard work was done, the team took some well-deserved time to get to know the sanctuary’s residents. They spent a peaceful afternoon bonding with rabbits and cats, helping to gently socialise them in a calm, supportive environment. It was a heart-warming end to a rewarding day and a meaningful way to see the impact of their efforts first-hand.
Gardening for calm at Maggie’s Manchester
Meanwhile, our UX and Design team spent the day volunteering at Maggie’s Centre in Manchester, located just across the road from The Christie cancer hospital.
Maggie’s offers vital support to people undergoing cancer treatment, as well as their loved ones. Thoughtfully designed to provide a peaceful escape from the clinical environment, the centre’s beautiful garden is central to creating a sense of calm and well-being.
Upon arrival, our volunteers were warmly welcomed by the Maggie’s Manchester team, who gave them a guided tour and shared insights into the invaluable work they do. Then it was time to head outside and get to work. The day’s focus was garden maintenance, with the team splitting into smaller groups to weed, sweep, and tidy up the pathways.
Particular attention was given to the route between The Christie and Maggie’s - a pathway that, while subtle, plays a powerful role in shaping visitors' experience. Keeping it clean and welcoming is a small but meaningful way to ensure everyone arriving at Maggie’s feels at ease.
After a full day of weeding, composting, watering, and tidying, the team were ready for a rest, but also left feeling incredibly proud. It was a privilege to contribute to the upkeep of such a special place, designed to support those facing some of life’s toughest moments.
Reflections
Our Kaplan teams came away inspired and grateful:
- Impact of small actions: From sweeping paths to weeding beds, seemingly small tasks make a huge difference for those who rely on these spaces.
- Team bonding outside the office: Working together in new environments strengthened our team spirit and sense of purpose.
- Grateful for the time to give back: Our dedicated volunteering hours give us the opportunity to pause, reflect, and make a meaningful contribution, while showing appreciation for the incredible local communities that inspire us.
These volunteer days reflect Kaplan’s belief in building both educational success and stronger, more connected communities. We’re proud of our Marketing teams for dedicating their time, talents, and care, and we look forward to more days of meaningful impact in the future.
Get started with volunteering
Volunteering is one of the most rewarding ways to use your time, whether you’re passionate about education, the environment, or healthcare. Take the first step by exploring local organisations that align with your interests. Your skills and enthusiasm could make a significant impact.
Read more about what teams at Kaplan are doing to support their local communities.