DS card + drive GmbH, part of the Europe-wide tankpool24 network, provides fuel to the logistics industry around the clock at automated petrol stations across Europe. About 1.5 years ago, our subsidiary began a partnership with workshops for people with disabilities (WfbM) to maintain the green spaces at these stations.
Recently, the automated petrol station in Delmenhorst has also been maintained in cooperation with proTeam Himmelsthür gGmbH (PTH). This WfbM offers employment and training in various fields, aiming to integrate people with support needs into the workforce and society.
"As a medium-sized family business, responsible entrepreneurship is very important to us. We want to give people a chance and actively promote inclusion. Collaborating with workshops for people with disabilities is a step for us to contribute to reintegration."
Mario Hohensee, Head of Operations at DS card + drive
A project that sets an example
Melanie Jacob, workshop manager at proTeam Himmelsthür, and Julian von Seggern, team leader in the technology department and responsible for the gardening and landscaping area, were personally on site at the first appointment at the petrol station in Delmenhorst.
"We offer our employees diverse opportunities in various fields, such as carpentry, assembly, or packaging. Now we have also created a new offer in the garden sector with DS card + drive," explains Melanie Jacob. "The more external workplaces we provide, the more chances we offer our employees to develop further and possibly establish themselves in the general labor market one day."
Mr. von Seggern emphasizes the importance of practical experience: "Our employees with support needs are carefully prepared and trained for every tool they use, ensuring they can work safely. Projects like this are ideal because our employees learn to work outdoors and in the private sector. This is important for building self-confidence and gaining the necessary experience for the general labor market."
The positive response from the employees confirms the success of the project. Melanie Jacob adds: "Our employees are highly motivated and excited about this assignment. The varied tasks and new environment offer them valuable experiences. This positive attitude and excitement show how important such projects are for personal and professional development."
"I would like to see more openness towards people and for companies to have the courage to invite people with disabilities into the company. Just give it a try and be positively surprised."
Julian von Seggern, Team Leader of Education and Technology, proTeam Himmelsthür
Outlook and further projects
Due to the positive experience, DS card + drive is planning to expand its collaboration with the garages to other locations. ‘We are currently looking into which other petrol stations might be suitable,’ says Hohensee.
This successful co-operation shows how important it is to be open to new approaches and to actively promote diversity in our society. For the DS Group, which has always been socially committed, this is another example of how social inclusion and corporate responsibility can be combined under the motto #bettertogether.
