Objective
CWT Meetings & Events collaborated with 3M, a major multinational conglomerate company, specializing in worker safety, health care, and consumer goods in order to execute a unique incentive event. The purpose was to recognize and celebrate the power of community, and reward employees for their efforts and success from around the globe.
In addition, the client wanted a very special CSR (corporate social responsibility) initiative to be incorporated into their incentive. They wanted to find a way for employees to give back to the environment as a part of their program, and to provide employees with a legacy, working together to make a big impact for years to come.
Challenge
The client chose Hawaii as the incentive destination, but given short notice to source and secure hotels, it proved to be a challenge initially. Also, the scale of the event grew from the original count of 850 attendees up to 1,000 attendees.
Solution
With the client’s requirements in mind, and exercising extensive knowledge around incentive travel and impactful CSR activities, we provided clear solution to achieve their objectives.
Using preferred suppliers, CWT M&E were able to accommodate the level of demand for the event across three properties, even after the number rose by 150 attendees. In addition:
- Secured meeting spaces for the organizational strategic meetings.
- Ensured timely arrivals and departures to and from hotels, airports and organized activities.
- Secured alternative locations for gatherings due to temperamental weather.
Overall, the corporate social responsibility experience became the highlight of the trip. Harnessing 3M’s values around integrity, sustainable growth and respecting social and physical environments, CWT M&E organized a team of 3M and local volunteers to provide long-term, sustainable return to the local community, making a positive impact on the environment.
The community service project involved 350 3M team members who qualified for the event by accomplishing a key business goal. They planted more than 100 trees, including breadfruit and coconut trees, which are projected to yield over 200,000 pounds of fruits annually. These will then be distributed for free to the local community and school districts.
Results
Embodying the client’s requirements into the execution, CWT M&E delivered extensive services that were well received by all the attendees. Through a post-event survey, they indicated a nine out of ten satisfaction rate for the services. Goals were fully achieved and attendees had a memorable experience overall.
The CSR team-building event was a huge success. With widespread local engagement, 3M remained the first group to plant breadfruit within the forest, which left a legacy for the attendees to follow.
“Our team came from all over the world for a very unique 3M experience. We wanted to do something that would leave a positive impact on the community,” said Sara Merritt, strategic planner, 3M.
“We were also thrilled to be recognized as a SITE Crystal Award recipient for this work with 3M, the Ku’ia Agricultural Education Center and the Hawaii Farmers Union Foundation,” said Beau Ballin, Senior Director, Business Development, CWT Meetings & Events.
Quick facts
- 350 3M team members worked with 20 local volunteer farmers to plant 100 + trees
- 9 out of 10 client satisfaction
- CWT M&E winner of SITE Crystal Award for Impactful Incentive Program
“This trip, for us, was about recognizing and celebrating the power of a team, and the community event was a perfect way to work collectively to make an impact and help others for years to come.”
Sara Merritt, Strategic Planner, 3M