Words: Simona Luckova
As part of the “Improvements in the Favelas” initiative, Grundfos volunteers renovated seven homes, improving living conditions for 205 people. Families in Heliópolis, the largest favela in São Paulo with around 200,000 residents, now enjoy safer, healthier, and more comfortable homes thanks to these interventions.
The renovations included repairing roofs, upgrading bathrooms, improving plumbing and electrical systems, installing flooring, and enhancing safety with handrails and improved ventilation.
“I want to thank you for the renovation. My family loved it. It feels like a year-end gift that came at the perfect time,” said Eva, one of the residents whose home was transformed. Stories like hers capture the heart of the project: turning basic needs into life-changing improvements.
Volunteer group photo, Habitat and Grundfos volunteers in Brazil. Photo: Habitat for Humanity Brazil
Grundfos volunteers contributed a total of 280 hours, working side by side with the families and local construction teams. Their involvement didn’t just stop at physical work. They engaged with residents, learned about local challenges, and shared smiles and encouragement. A post-project satisfaction survey showed impressive results, with ratings between 4.5 and 4.9 out of 5, reflecting the meaningful experience for both employees and beneficiaries.
- The Foundation funds community engagement projects making active use of corporate volunteering in Grundfos. The next application deadline is 9 april: More info
Beyond the numbers, this volunteering experience strengthened connections—within the Grundfos team and with the communities we serve. Employees had the opportunity to witness firsthand the impact of their work and to understand the challenges many families face in accessing safe housing.
Grundfos employee volunteers on site in Brazil. Photo: Habitat for Humanity Brazil
“I’ve worked at Grundfos for 7 years, I’m on the Grundfos Social Responsibility Committee, which is what motivates me, what excites me, and I really enjoy being part of this team. This action we’re doing today is incredible, I’m loving it so much, the family is incredible, the story is incredible. Knowing that we’re being part of making their dream come true is very rewarding for us. So it’s incredible for us, it’s great to have this opportunity,” says Tatiane Balbino from Grundfos.
This initiative is a vivid example of how corporate engagement can support sustainable development, combining technical skills with empathy and community spirit. By contributing time, expertise, and energy, Grundfos employees helped lay the foundation for healthier, safer homes and a brighter future for families in Heliópolis and beyond.
- The Foundation funds community engagement projects making active use of corporate volunteering in Grundfos. The next application deadline is 9 april: More info
Grundfos employee volunteer on site in Brazil Photo: Habitat for Humanity Brazil