Rothschild bends over backwards to raise funds
Creativity is in full flower when Rothschild's employees turn their minds to raising money for Operation Santa Claus at their Christmas party.
In past years, they have auctioned their services when, for example, a managing director offered a five-course champagne dinner for four at his luxurious flat. Another bought breakfast for colleagues for 10 days.
This year the private bank's staff held a Christmas limbo contest, raising funds by sponsoring colleagues to compete. The event was the highlight of a company masquerade party at the Jockey Club in Happy Valley. Staff from the Hong Kong, Beijing and Shanghai offices all sported Venetian-style face masks.
In the limbo contest each level of difficulty required fresh sponsorship, and contestants could not advance without raising a certain amount in donations.
Catherine Yien, Rothschild's chief operating officer, said: 'Christmas is not only a time to enjoy the holidays and festivities with friends and family, but more importantly it is a time of giving to those in need by being a major donor to Operating Santa Claus. We know our donations will be put to good use.
'Most of use are focused on work for most of the year. I think it is a good time to remind our staff that it's important to give back to society.'
This is the fifth year Rothschild has participated in the Operation Santa fund-raising appeal, jointly organised by the South China Morning Post and RTHK.
Since its launch in 1988, Operation Santa Claus has supported more than 100 charities. Money raised this year will directly benefit 16 Hong Kong-based charities that help the needy in Hong Kong and on the mainland.
In the past four years, employees auctioned off services to raise money. This year they changed the format in hopes that a fresh approach would boost donations.
How you can give
Donate online by credit card at osc.scmp.com
Donations can be made at ATMs or at any branch of HSBC: account number 502-676299-001 for SCMP CHARITIES LTD-OPERATION SANTA CLAUS
You can make a donation by cheque, payable to 'SCMP CHARITIES LTD-OPERATION SANTA CLAUS' and mail to: Operation Santa Claus, Morning Post Centre, 22 Dai Fat Street, Tai Po Industrial Estate, New Territories, Hong Kong
Donations of HK$100 or more are tax-deductible. If you would like a tax receipt, please send the completed donation form and original bank receipt with your name, address and phone number to the address above.
