Corporate Social Responsibility in Construction: Elcad’s Outreach

by Jane Espinase | July 1, 2019

Children holding their backpacks during corporate social responsibility outreach

Elcad’s Back to School Outreach Program

Corporate social responsibility in construction is more than building infrastructures—it’s about building communities. At Elcad Construction Corporation, this value inspires action beyond work sites through its long-standing partnership with the 3J Foundation. Together, they conduct a yearly Back to School Outreach Program to give Filipino children the tools to succeed in school.

Elcad team giving out backpacks during corporate social responsibility outreach

Giving Back, One Backpack at a Time

The program began in response to Typhoon Yolanda’s devastation. What started as a heartfelt donation quickly turned into an annual tradition led by Elcad’s founder, Ms. Ellen Bantiling. By visiting schools in the provinces where many Elcad employees are from, she celebrates her birth month by distributing backpacks full of school supplies.

A Commitment That Grows

In 2019 alone, Elcad distributed 5,000 backpacks to grade school students across Leyte, Iloilo, Camarines Sur, Romblon, Cavite, and Benguet. Every May, the outreach program continues to grow thanks to the dedication of its team and the support of its partners.

Outreach Timeline and Planning

The program begins in December with the “My Dream in a Shoebox” campaign, which gathers thousands of donations from sponsors. By January, the 3J Foundation starts producing backpacks, while volunteers pack the school supplies in February and March. In April, shipments begin and by May, kids receive their bags during lively community events.

Grade school children receiving school supplies from outreach program

Social Impact Through CSR in Construction

Each outreach event is held in schools, churches, or public spaces large enough to host the pupils. Since its inception, the program has helped over 15,000 children. Through its commitment to corporate social responsibility in construction, Ellcad proves that even small acts—like giving a child a backpack—can make a big difference.

“CSR is about more than image—it’s about legacy,” says an Elcad team member. “We’re proud to build futures both in and out of the office.”

Why CSR in Construction Matters

Corporate social responsibility has become essential in industries like construction, where projects directly affect people and communities. When companies invest in education and outreach, they strengthen the very communities that support their business.