WESTBROOK – Idexx Laboratories is encouraging its full-time employees to take two paid days off work each year to volunteer in their communities.

Idexx, headquartered in Westbrook, has nearly 5,000 employees around the world, and one-third of them are in Westbrook. In Maine alone, the new community service initiative could translate to 3,300 volunteer days – the equivalent of a full-time employee working every day for nine years.

Jon Ayers, Idexx’s chief executive officer, said the policy is optional, but the company wants its workers to give back to the community.

“It was an idea that came from our employees,” Ayers said, explaining that employee input during a recent 18-month introspective process indicated Idexx workers thought they could be doing more in the realm of public service.

“Here’s an opportunity for us to give back to our community in a way that’s meaningful to our employees,” Ayers said.

Already a company known for its community involvement, Ayers said the feedback from employees was tremendously positive following the announcement of the initiative on Nov. 18. He said he hopes it helps attract more employees who value contributing to the community.

The announcement came during the largest meeting in company history. Ayers addressed 1,000 employees gathered in the Westbrook Performing Arts Center at the Middle School. His comments were simultaneously webcast to international employees.

The volunteering initiative begins in 2011. All full-time employees working at least 30 hours a week will be eligible.

The announcement coincided with the launching of Idexx’s new “Purpose and Guiding Principles” that outline the mission and culture of the company as it continues to grow.

Idexx is a leader in pet health care innovation. It serves practicing veterinarians worldwide with a broad range of products and services.

Copy the Story Link