In a country where the majority of our citizens face major economic and social challenges, it goes without saying that companies and corporations have a fundamental responsibility to assist in improving the lives of individuals and communities. Webber Wentzel has long recognised this fact, and Corporate Social Investment (CSI) forms a significant part of our strategic approach to business in South Africa. Our approach to CSI comprises five focus areas:
Pro bono services
Webber Wentzel has made a significant contribution to providing pro bono legal services to individuals and NGOs in respect of issues that are important to South African society. Through our Pro Bono department we have been involved in numerous cases dealing with the rights of people to housing, education, water and electricity. In addition the department is involved in projects dealing with children's rights, gender and HIV/Aids issues, all of which are of particular importance to the wellbeing of many South Africans at present.
Arts
Webber Wentzel supports the development of the arts in South Africa through a number of initiatives, including sponsorships of the Webber Wentzel Young Artists' Competition and the Johannesburg Philharmonic Orchestra. The firm also supports many talented local artists by purchasing their works for display at Webber Wentzel’s offices.
Women and children's rights
Webber Wentzel supports projects which play a role in upholding the rights of women and children through developing solutions to the problem of violent and sexual crimes against women and children. We provide support to organizations which are playing a key implementing role in providing solutions to child and women abuse problems.
Education and Training
The Webber Wentzel scholarship programme provides scholarships, through a number of universities, to law students from previously disadvantaged backgrounds or with financial difficulties. In addition, financial support is provided to a number of universities to fund specific projects aimed at improving and maintaining the quality of education offered.
Criminal justice system
In recognition of the fact that crime affects all South Africans, and that using the law to address this is something a firm like ours can do, Webber Wentzel is becoming involved in specific initiatives around improving the criminal justice system, These vary from support for our local police station, the donation of computers and our equipment to the SAPS and the development of skilled staff on a secondment basis to the SAPS and/or Department of Justice.
Administration of the Webber Wentzel CSI budget is on a committee basis and members of the committee take a hands-on approach by involving themselves in the various projects, and providing support and guidance wherever required.
If your non-profit organisation would like to apply for funding please email Teressa Malevu.
