from a courier company and a film processing firm.

International Bonded Couriers (IBC) has agreed to donate $1 for every outbound UPS package that is sent from its Express Centre on Park Road and Zip-pix will donate $1 for every film that is dropped off in any of its locations throughout the Island to the Family Learning Centre (FLC).

"Collectively it is anticipated that IBC/Zip-pix will donate $10,000 per annum to the FLC. In addition, IBC is encouraging its 76 staff to participate in all FLC activities such as their annual walk and a new mentoring programme that will be set up for IBC staff who wish to get more involved in the community,'' a spokeswoman for the two firms said.

The FLC aims to strengthen children and their families through prevention, education and counselling services in partnership with parents and the community.

IBC president Glen Smith said: "We believe it is important to really invest our personal time as well as providing financial assistance to the philanthropy projects that we support on the Island.

"It's easy enough to write a cheque, but there is so much more we can do to help our community. We strongly encourage all our staff to get involved, particularly males who are much needed for the FLC's mentoring programme.'' FLC executive director Martha Dismont said: "We are extremely grateful to IBC and Zip-pix for their wonderful generosity in agreeing to support the FLC on an ongoing basis.

"We have found that staff involvement as part of a corporate sponsorship is a growing trend. Employees are being exposed to charities that they may not previously have been aware of, and are excited about the differences that they can really make to others' lives. They realise it's more than just doing the right thing.'' She noted: "It is most gratifying that IBC is involved with us at all levels by encouraging their entire staff to participate in our activities and programmes, as well as providing much needed financial assistance.''