Andersen is strengthening its social commitment by establishing the Fundación Andersen Iberia, an organization dedicated to promoting equal opportunities in access to education.
Andersen is advancing its social commitment through the creation of the Fundación Andersen Iberia, an organization established with the mission of promoting equal access to educational opportunities. “The Foundation reflects the commitment and responsibility we have toward the people and communities where we operate,” says José Vicente Morote, Managing Partner. “We are convinced that education has the power to transform lives and communities, and that it is a key tool for building a more just and equitable society,” he notes. The Foundation was established by the firm’s Board of Directors, which recognizes the importance of actively contributing to the betterment of society.
From its headquarters on Velázquez Street in Madrid, the Foundation will organize its activities around five lines of action linked to the concept of education as a social ladder: education and support for children; scientific and cultural advancement; promotion of sports and health; collaboration with the nonprofit sector and promotion of volunteerism; and social inclusion through education for vulnerable groups. “The values of this Foundation are rooted in the deep humanism that is part of our organization,” explains José Vicente Morote, “for that reason, each of these lines of action stems from the conviction that we must contribute to a more equitable and supportive society that is aware of the role institutions play in collective well-being.”
The Foundation’s Board of Trustees consists of José Vicente Morote, Managing Partner and President of the Foundation; Ignacio Aparicio, Executive Partner and Secretary of the Foundation; and the following members: Javier Mata, Senior Partner; Ana Teresa Martínez, Director; Juan Ignacio Alonso, Partner; Miguel Gordillo, Of Counsel; and Elena Martínez, Partner. The Executive Director is Fernando de Rasche, Counsel at Andersen.
The Foundation’s mission stems from the urgent need to support those affected by the DANA in 2024. Andersen has an office in Valencia, where 120 professionals work, many of whom suffered losses. “Knowing that part of our team had endured a disaster of such magnitude spurred us to get to work immediately, not only to help our people but also to support Valencian society, of which we are a part and which we consider our own,” says José Vicente Morote.
Following this initial response, carried out directly by Andersen Iberia, the firm’s Board of Directors set out to establish its Foundation. Once established, the foundation took its first steps by providing financial support to four Valencian schools affected by the DANA, with the goal of improving learning conditions and ensuring that the aid has a real impact. “We have already provided them with a financial contribution that will be used to repair facilities, purchase teaching materials, and help improve the educational environment for their students,” explains José Vicente Morote.
The Foundation continues to move forward with new initiatives and is considering the creation of an Advisory Board composed of leading figures from the academic, professional, cultural, and social spheres. This body will assist the Board of Trustees in defining strategic priorities. Projects will be selected based on criteria of rigor, impartiality, and non-discrimination, ensuring their effectiveness and social relevance.
As for its scope of action, the Foundation plans to carry out its social work in the cities where it is present, both in Spain and Portugal. “We are taking our first steps in Spain, specifically in Valencia, and we will soon have an action plan that will determine the steps to be taken in the cities where we are located,” explains José Vicente Morote.