For Dexia, support for the underprivileged is a daily commitment that translates into numerous actions designed in particular to combat exclusion. Its two Foundations, in France and in Belgium, are the principal channels through which that policy is implemented.
Making young people feel part of the community
Through Dexia France Foundation, Dexia supports programmes that encourage marginalised young people living in disadvantaged urban and rural areas to become effective citizens in their communities and to create projects of benefit to society. Each year, the Foundation sponsors around forty projects throughout the country involving 5,000 young people. It has also established a School for Citizenship, which trains young people in the values of democracy and initiates them into a culture of dialogue. In 2010, eight training sessions were organised for young people in different parts of France on subjects including access for the handicapped, urban violence in deprived areas and on public transport, children’s rights, youth unemployment and the environment.
Action on all fronts
In Luxembourg, Dexia actively supports the local voluntary sector. In 2010, nearly 100,000 euros were disbursed to help charities involved in medical research or in care for handicapped children or the elderly.
In Turkey, Dexia’s subsidiary DenizBank financially supports the school bursary programme and sponsors the restoration of primary schools through an annual grant of nearly 50,000 euros.