Ever since its establishment in 2006, Société Générale Corporate Foundation for Solidarity has worked to improve the employment prospects and literacy of young people.

With an annual budget of over 1 million euros, the Foundation has forged long-term partnerships with national and international charities, including CARE, Secours Populaire Français and the Red Cross.

With the ultimate aim of encouraging access to employment for young people at risk of exclusion from the job market, the Foundation focuses on projects likely to provide effective routes to work and springboards into the world of employment. These include coaching towards employment, reintegration projects, reintegration companies and work experience, all of which can provide bridges to long-term employment.

But mastering basic skills is essential for a successful entry into the world of work. The Foundation is therefore committed to supporting literacy initiatives amongst at-risk groups.

Reawakening the desire to learn, strengthening links between trainees, volunteers and trainers, developing technical and behavioural skills and associating basic skills with a culture of learning are the key criteria addressed by the Foundation in deciding where to provide support.

The deadline for submitting applications for support for examination by the Selection committee in January 2010 is 30 November 2009.