SM employee volunteers for social good
Amidst our bustling life, kind-hearted individuals walk among us, often unnoticed. They are the quiet heroes who go out of their way to make a difference, even in small ways. Some may be the people we unknowingly cross paths with in our favorite malls.
Archie Austria, a propsman at SM City Bataan, is a familiar face during corporate social responsibility activities in the area. Known for his willingness to lend his time, talent, and effort, Archie has been an active volunteer in various initiatives led by the SM Foundation and SM City Bataan.
Growing up as the youngest of 14 siblings, Archie learned the value of helping others early in life. After losing his mother during his teenage years, his siblings worked together to support him through school. To ease the financial burden on his family, he took on part-time jobs creating props for events and making extra income for his school projects and requirements.
“I grew up in a big family where helping each other was a way of life,” he shared. “My siblings supported my education and helped me reach where I am today. Now, I want to give back, and I am thankful that the SM Group provides opportunities for us to help others.”
His experiences of loss and hardship have deepened his sense of empathy and drive to help others. “I know what it’s like to lose someone and how much it means to have others by your side during difficult times. That’s why I do my best to comfort those in need, especially during crises,” he said.
As an active volunteer, Archie participates in activities such as coastal clean-ups and Operation Tulong Express, an SM Foundation program that provides relief to communities affected by disasters.
“I volunteer because I want to uplift communities and inspire others to do the same,” he added. “Seeing hope in the eyes of those we help motivates me to keep going, no matter how challenging it gets.”
Archie hopes to keep the SM Foundation’s core principle of ‘people helping people’ alive. Through its various initiatives, the foundation empowers employees and communities to work together to build a better future for the communities they happily serve.
“I hope my efforts inspire others to preserve the environment and always open their hearts to help those in need. I want to see future generations grow up believing in hope and the kindness of others. I hope that through the small things I do, I can inspire them to help one another and create a better, more compassionate world,” he said.
