Johnson Controls Supports its Employees' Volunteer Work

BURSCHEID, Germany, August 9 --

- Project Supporting Elementary School Aged Children Receives 1,000 US Dollars

Susanne Schmeier, an employee at at the European headquarters of Johnson Controls, one of the world's leading suppliers of automotive interior systems, electronics and batteries, is very happy. A check in the amount of 1,000 US dollars has just arrived from the USA to support the charity project "Balu und Du" that she volunteers for. As part of a corporate initiative 1,000 US dollars each are donated to various charitable organizations that Johnson Controls' employees are involved in.

"Balu und Du" - improving children's social skills Under the motto "a voluntary commitment to cheer up children" the charitable project "Balu und Du" helps elementary school aged children who, for various reasons, need a little more attention and care. These little ones, referred to as "Moglis", now have young adults at their side, referred to as "Balus", to give them the support they need. The adults, who take on the role of mentors, meet once or twice a week with their Moglis over a time period of about one year. The focus is always on the current interests, as well as the needs and problems of the children. "Individual attention allows us to link various project goals", explained Dominik Esch, Project Manager of "Balu und Du". "We help prevent violence or aggressive behavior, we inspire and encourage various interests, we strengthen their social skills and help the children develop a positive self image."

Responsibility and development - all around the globe Susanne Schmeier is one of many at Johnson Controls, who offer their services to charitable projects or organizations in their spare time. Employees at Johnson Controls globally are working as volunteers at many of its 250 locations.The company has always been aware of the needs of its local communities. "Through our corporate initiative, we support and encourage the commitment and skills of our staff who are actively providing a social service within their own community", explained Britta Campana, Personnel Manager of the Burscheid office.