Collaboration and camaraderie were the order of the day last week as several members of the Associated Asphalt team joined in on a jam-packed team building day hosted by chosen charity partner Veterans In Action (VIA).
Held on 25 March in woodland surroundings near the VIA Centre in Hampshire, the one-day event brought together more than 20 employees from across the business with VIA for an unforgettable outdoor survival experience.
Themed around ‘Escape from the Jungle’, participants worked in small groups to tackle a series of army-inspired survival challenges designed to push them firmly out of their comfort zone, build trust and enhance communication. Activities included crossing a ‘river’, sourcing a water supply, constructing a shelter, signalling for help and even blind Land Rover driving, with every activity grounded in real-life military tips and teamwork.
Maureen Tallis, Head of People at Associated Asphalt, said: “We’re hugely grateful to the team at Veterans In Action for what was a truly fantastic event. It was especially inspiring to know that some of those leading the activities are veterans themselves, many living with PTSD, which made supporting them feel even more meaningful. Their expertise, encouragement and sense of humour made the event not just a learning experience, but genuinely enjoyable.”
The event forms part of Associated Asphalt’s wider Social Values initiative which includes a number of socio and economic actions designed to enrich the communities in which the business operates and leave a positive and lasting legacy of pride and inclusion.
As part of this, Associated Asphalt continues to support nominated charity VIA, an Andover-based charity that helps veterans, particularly those struggling to adjust to civilian life or suffering from the effects of war, through outdoor activities, expeditions, and projects.
Most recently, the Associated Asphalt team organised a fundraising quiz, with all proceeds directed to VIA, and are currently preparing a sponsored ultra-walk later in the summer.
Maureen adds: “As a progressive, inclusive, people-oriented business, we feel incredibly passionate about the opportunity to give back and make a genuine difference in the local communities in which we operate.
“Veterans in Action is particularly close to our hearts, as many of our employees have served our country. It’s a fantastic charity dedicated to helping veterans rebuild confidence, find purpose and reintegrate into civilian life. We are proud to support their mission and have lots more in the pipeline as we continue collaborating to make a real, lasting impact.”
