How do we find the time to support our local community?  
 
Husband and wife partnership, Ron and Mary Allen formed the consultancy nearly 18 years ago. EPCG has gone from strength to strength and has built its first class reputation on its meticulous approach, sound knowledge, practical experience and above all, its personal service.  
 
We remain a small firm. For those projects where we need to pull a team together, we work with a top class network of other independent professionals.  
 
This way of working enables us to have the opportunity to give something back to our local community, something which has always been close to our hearts.  
 
So, where do we get involved?  
 
This is organised according to our different skills and abilities.  
 
Ron devotes his time to working on many issues involved with the natural environment. These include Local Agenda 21, management of 'The Heath' in Petersfield, Biodiversity Action Plans and contributing his time to local voluntary groups on a 'no fee' or 'expenses only' basis.  
 
Mary works extensively within the business community and is actively involved with a wide range of issues. She also proposed and founded the East Hampshire Chamber of Commerce and Industry and proposed the Environment Committee of the Portsmouth and South East Hampshire Chamber of Commerce and Industry (this committee has now evolved into the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Business Environment Forum).  
 
And the 'what's in it for me'?  
 
We truly believe there are many benefits to be gained from contributing voluntary time to worthwhile causes, both personally and in business. Some of these benefits may be at a subconscious level and certainly not intentional, but those below (and more) all contribute to the overall 'enjoyment' factor. There are a great many 'volunteers' around the country (indeed the world) so there must be something in it!  
 
 
1. You really can make a difference (how wonderful to change something for the better).  
 
2. People really are grateful (which makes you feel good).  
 
3. It's good fun (the pleasure thing).  
 
and sometimes  
 
4. There is some pretty good PR to be had (the business benefit).  
 

What more could anyone want?