Srishti G.

We recently spoke with Srishti, G., Operations Success Program Manager and Local Committee Chair for Toast.org in Bangalore. As a Local Committee Chair, Srishti is responsible for planning and organizing volunteer events for the Bangalore team. Since joining Toast in 2022, Srishti has worked diligently to bring Toasters together in a meaningful way by giving back to the community. Learn more about Srishti below!

Why was it important for you to get involved with Toast.org after you joined the team?

My upbringing was shaped by parents who held giving to others in the highest regard. Despite their 9-5 government jobs and two ever-demanding kids to take care of, they consistently found ways to teach underprivileged children and offer shelter to those in need. Currently, they're fostering a determined high school student from a humble village background, guiding him towards ambitious career aspirations through city resources. Their selflessness towards family and society deeply inspires me to contribute to the community.

Another significant source of motivation is my partner, who's been committed to animal rescue for a decade and adopted a vegan lifestyle seven years ago, driven by compassion for animals. Together, we're fostering an adorable puppy and preparing him for his permanent home. These influences strongly shape my commitment to giving back and making this world a better place for all living beings.

Toast.org provides all of us an avenue through our employer to better understand the most effective beneficiaries and the ways to reach them. This enables us to address crucial social and environmental issues amidst our busy work schedules – a chance that might have remained elusive otherwise.

How does Toast.org impact the overall company culture in Bangalore?

Since its inception in Bangalore in October 2022, Toast.org has effectively cultivated a profound sense of purpose and social responsibility among its employees. This has fostered a collective commitment to the betterment of society and the environment, culminating in a positive work environment where Toasters takes pride in their association with an organization that generates significant positive change.

Adopting a monthly programming model, the Toast.org Bangalore Chapter orchestrates monthly events that align with the organization's core pillars of food, environmental security, and community service. These events held both on-site and at beneficiary locations in collaboration with partner Nongovernmental Organizations (NGOs), have garnered enthusiastic participation from Toasters, and have facilitated teamwork and skill enhancement while aligning personal principles with professional pursuits. 

Toast.org, from my perspective, has significantly elevated job satisfaction, engagement, and commitment, as employees find gratification in contributing to causes greater than themselves, all while being part of a company that shares their values.

Tell us about a recent event. 

This July, 24 Toasters visited the foothills of the famous Nandi Hill Station and served morning nutrition and snacks to 68 school students (Grades 1-8) of a local government school. Toasters also engaged in fun games and learning activities with the kids. This initiative was organized in collaboration with Sri Sathya Sai Annapoorna Trust which serves morning nutrition to approximately 30 lacs (~3 million) school students all over the country and was an Impact Grant recipient during Season of Giving 2022. The Trust also invited the volunteers for an educational visit to their headquarters which is spread over 120 acres and houses a large hospital (~1500 patients per day), various educational institutions, and a morning nutrition manufacturing unit that caters to the needs of underprivileged section of the country free of charge!

What has been your favorite moment volunteering with Toast.org?

Witnessing the sustained enthusiasm of our volunteers and the exceptional dedication of my committee members is undeniably the most gratifying aspect of leading Toast.org in Bangalore. As we persist in bringing smiles to those we aim to help, I am filled with immense pride for the impact we've achieved through various initiatives over the past year, and trust me when I say this - each and every event has been nothing short of an achievement and fulfillment in itself!

We have undoubtedly positively impacted our local community, serving as a foundational step in our journey with Toast.org Bangalore.