On April 23, the campus of AstraZeneca, a global pharmaceutical company, in Gaithersburg, Maryland, was filled with excitement and energy. In celebration of “Take Your Child to Work Day,” WeLoveU and AstraZeneca continued the partnership they began last year, creating a special opportunity for parents and children to connect with one another and share meaningful moments.
AstraZeneca hosts the event annually to give children a firsthand look at their parents’ workplace and foster greater understanding within families. This year, WeLoveU contributed by operating a variety of hands-on activity booths and providing volunteer support, helping create a meaningful environment where families could communicate openly and build stronger bonds.
According to research by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), children who communicate openly with their parents tend to experience greater life satisfaction and stronger emotional resilience. However, with the growing number of dual-income households, it is not always easy for parents and children to sit down together and have meaningful conversation.
Against this backdrop, WeLoveU and AstraZeneca welcomed approximately 1,500 children who attended the event with their parents, helping them enjoy a wide range of activities while receiving warm encouragement and support.
A Special Children’s Performance Conveying Parental Love
The venue was bustling with activity. Long lines formed not only at AstraZeneca’s hands-on science booths but also at WeLoveU’s face-painting and colorful candy necklace-making stations.
WeLoveU members assisted with the operation of AstraZeneca’s booths and warmly engaged with each child waiting in line. They made sure every child felt welcomed and included.
The highlight of the day was a special children’s performance held in the auditorium. Titled “Invisible Cape,” the play depicted how AI and advanced technology can help parents balance their responsibilities at work and at home. It encouraged children to recognize and support their parents as everyday heroes.
At the end of the performance, children wearing Batman-style masks and capes took the stage as “heroes” and performed a song and dance. The audience responded with enthusiastic applause and cheers. A message displayed on the screen made the atmosphere even warmer:
“Even when you can’t see it, love is your invisible cape. Wear it every day.”
Through the performance, WeLoveU conveyed that the invisible power of love protects people and helps them grow, encouraging children to become the heroes of tomorrow by practicing empathy and consideration in their daily lives.
Beyond Technological Innovation: The Importance of Human Connection
AstraZeneca employees expressed their sincere appreciation for WeLoveU’s support. Neelima Rao, Head of Oncology R&D and Human Resources for North America, emphasized that human connection is just as important as technological innovation in the laboratory. She added that the warmth and compassion demonstrated by WeLoveU have a positive influence on both the organization and its research environment.
Kimberly Pressley, an HR Solutions Partner at AstraZeneca and a WeLoveU volunteer, said, “Applying WeLoveU’s core value—the heart of a mother—within an organization can help reduce employees’ stress and bring about positive change throughout the workplace. This partnership has created meaningful synergy for both organizations.” Tiffany Lukis, Director of STEM and Community Engagement, also expressed her appreciation, saying, “WeLoveU’s genuine commitment increased the impact of the event more than tenfold.”
Key Anticipated Benefits
Strengthening Family Bonds
By experiencing their parents’ workplace firsthand, children gain a better understanding of their parents and strengthen intergenerational bonds.
Promoting Social Value
Collaboration between an NGO and a corporation helps foster a culture of sharing and community engagement.
Supporting Emotional and Character Development
The program enhances children’s empathy, supports the development of a positive self-image, and helps them grow into well-rounded and responsible members of society.
A Bright Future Shaped by Children
As the children experienced their parents’ workplace and gained a deeper understanding of their lives, family bonds grew even stronger. The “invisible cape of love” that warmly embraced the children that day will continue to positively influence their lives and growth for years to come.
Even in an age of advanced technology, the greatest force that moves the world is sincere love and care for others. As children—precious treasures full of promise—grow surrounded by love, our shared future becomes brighter and more hopeful.
WeLoveU will continue to build partnerships with companies across various industries and help create happier lives for members of the global family.
