Karina Howley, head of Corporate Social Responsibility at KPMG pictured with the team from St Michael’s House, Dublin
KPMG was recognised for its work with St Michael’s House at the Allianz Business to Arts Awards as the firm won Best Creative Staff Engagement.
The Allianz Business to Arts Awards recognise businesses, artists and arts organisations that develop creative partnerships and bring the arts and artists into mutually beneficial relationships across society.
KPMG worked with St Michael’s House to create a series of multi-sensory stories for children with intellectual disabilities.
KPMG has built a strong relationship with St Michael’s House over the last few years through employees volunteering for activities.
Karina Howley, head of CSR, KPMG said: “We are delighted to accept this award tonight and see our partnership with St Michael’s House being recognised. Our staff loved the opportunity to get involved in a hands-on project using their creative skills to write the stories, find the appropriate sensory items to bring the story to life and help with the packaging of the stories into story boxes. They had the chance to really make a positive impact on children’s lives.”
Barbara Wiseman, head of fundraising at St Michael’s House, added: “Multi-sensory stories provide a way for children with complex needs who cannot benefit from mainstream books to participate in storytelling. It really helps improve their sensory development and awareness. We have instances where a child may not have been able to make eye contact or lift a hand and can now do these small things. These are huge steps for the children and KPMG’s support has been highly valuable.”