More than 26 000 employees across more than 55 markets took part in volunteer projects supporting non-profits and community organisations focused on environmental conservation, food security, education, health and youth development, says the VML Foundation.

Over the years, VML's collective effort has demonstrated measurable scale. In 2025, employees contributed more than 9 000 volunteer hours across nearly 300 projects benefiting more 150 non-profit organisations worldwide. This year, VMLers once again came together to turn a single day of service into momentum that extended well beyond.? 

Formalised in 2005, VML Worldwide Foundation Day builds on a tradition of employee-led volunteer teams at the local level. The annual event connects VMLers around a shared purpose while allowing teams to respond to the needs of the communities where they live and work, adds VML.

This year's theme, Good Grows, reflects the idea that acts of service take root, grow and create lasting impact — both for the causes VML supported and for its people. As the industry's largest synchronised charitable corporate impact day, the programme underscores the importance of supporting the communities that help sustain businesses.? 

"Every year, I'm inspired by joining more than 26 000 VMLers around the world to step up for the communities we call home," says Jon Cook, Global CEO, VML and WPP Creative. "It's a powerful reminder that our impact isn't limited to the work we do for clients — it's in the lives we touch and the causes we champion together."

VML Worldwide Foundation Day is a signature feature of the agency's community outreach programme and an expression of the agency's Human First philosophy. In addition to VML's dedication to Impact and Inclusion, career growth and development, and employee well-being, the VML Foundation is a powerful investment in its employees and the charitable causes they champion, says VML.

Here in South Africa, Cape Town teams supported The Under Dog Project, Help a Rural Child, Matla a Bana and Starling Primary. Johannesburg teams supported One Small Act of Kindness, Tomorrow Trust, Ladles of Love, Earthly Touch Foundation, Johannesburg Children’s Home, Kindness Like Confetti and Golang Outreach.

"One day of service creates momentum that carries through the other 364," concludes Lauren Ziegler, Executive Director, VML Foundation. "It's a reminder that giving back isn't separate from our culture. It's part of how we work together. The best days of service don't end when employees head home; they shape how people lead, collaborate and show up for one another and our communities all year long."

For more information, visit www.vml.com. You can also follow VML on Facebook, LinkedIn, X, Instagram, or on TikTok. 

*Image courtesy of contributor