First Onsite US

I had the opportunity to participate in a volunteer trip to Costa Rica, where I worked alongside others to help build a community center designed to serve local families and children. This trip was especially meaningful to me because it marked my **fourth international volunteer trip**, continuing my commitment to giving back to communities in need. On my previous trips, I helped **build homes for families in need**, providing them with safe and stable places to call home.

In Costa Rica, our work involved hands-on construction and teamwork to help create a safe and welcoming community center that will continue to serve local residents long after our trip. The center will provide a space for community events, educational programs, and training opportunities for children and families. It will also support **mental health initiatives**, providing a dedicated place where community members can access resources, participate in programs, connect with others, and receive support.

Each of my international volunteer experiences has reinforced the importance of service, teamwork, and giving back. Whether helping build a home for a family or creating a community center that can positively impact generations of residents, these experiences have allowed me to contribute to something bigger than myself. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to serve communities abroad for the fourth time and to play a small part in creating lasting, positive change.

As students across Tarrant County, TX prepare for a new school year, our HR Business Partner team had the opportunity to support their success through a meaningful community service activity with United Way of Tarrant County.

As part of United Way’s backpack drive, our team created encouraging cards for students to receive on their first day of school. Each card included a simple but important message: have a great school year, believe in yourself, and read, read, read!

What made this activity especially meaningful is that the encouragement will extend beyond the students receiving backpacks filled with school supplies. The cards will be shared with every student in the participating classrooms, ensuring that each child begins the school year with a personal message of support and encouragement.

While a handwritten card may seem like a small gesture, the message behind it is much bigger. A few thoughtful words can help a student feel seen, supported, and excited about the possibilities ahead. By reinforcing the importance of reading, we also hoped to encourage a habit that can open doors to learning, imagination, and future opportunity.

For our HRBP team, the experience was a reminder that serving our communities does not always require a grand gesture. Sometimes impact begins with taking the time to let someone know, “We believe in you, and we are cheering you on.”

We are proud to partner with United Way of Tarrant County and to play a small part in helping local students start their school year with both the supplies, and the encouragement they need to thrive.

This summer, members of the First Onsite Global HRIS team stepped away from our usual day-to-day work and spent time giving back at a local Humane Society.

Our team rolled up our sleeves to help wherever we were needed—from walking dogs and giving them some much appreciated exercise and attention to cleaning and organizing spaces around the facility. While these may seem like simple tasks, each one helps the Humane Society team devote more time and resources to caring for the animals who depend on them.

Of course, spending time with the dogs was a highlight! Beyond lending a helping hand, the experience gave our team an opportunity to connect with one another outside of work while supporting an organization that makes a meaningful difference in our community every day.

Our Summer of Service experience was a great reminder that making an impact doesn’t always require a grand gesture. Sometimes it’s a few hours of your time, a willingness to pitch in, and maybe a dog walk or two.

We’re grateful for the opportunity to support our local Humane Society and proud to be part of a FirstService community that encourages us to give back.

One team, a few helping hands, and plenty of paws — a summer day well spent!