Exploring Donghaiku: TSMC's One-Day Local Volunteer Program Pioneers a New Model for Cross-Sector Collaboration and Shared Value

TSMC is committed to extending its sustainability mindset to the communities where its fabs operate. While pursuing steady growth in its core business, the Company continues to respond to local needs through diverse volunteer service models developed by the TSMC Charity Foundation. In 2025, TSMC launched its first "One-Day Local Volunteer Program," guiding employees to explore the natural and cultural landscapes surrounding TSMC sites and strengthen their sense of belonging. To deepen the impact of the program, the TSMC Charity Foundation partnered with TSMC's Human Resources organization, National Tsing Hua University's field research project in Hsinchu, and local teams to host the "Hsinchu Donghaiku One-Day Volunteer Program" in August 2026. The event brought together 204 TSMC volunteers from 20 fabs and departments, along with teachers and students from Hsinchu Bei-Men Primary School, which TSMC volunteers have long supported. The initiative expanded volunteer service from environmental conservation to local culture, agriculture, and ecology. It also encouraged employees to better understand and connect with the cities where they live and work, making that connection a new starting point for deeper local engagement.

Donghaiku in Zhubei City, Hsinchu County, is a community that preserves the character of a traditional Hakka farming village and its irrigation-canal culture. To help employees gain a deeper understanding of the area's history, the TSMC Charity Foundation transformed cross-sector expertise into an immersive experience. National Tsing Hua University designed a walking route based on field research; local teams served as guides, sharing stories of the community, changes in agriculture, and traditional crafts; and volunteers from TSMC's Human Resources organization drew on their communication and facilitation skills to guide students as well as employees from across fabs through exploration. This cross-sector partnership created a model of community engagement that integrates cultural education, volunteer service, and team-building.

Designed with cross-sector partners, the event unfolded across three themes: local exploration, ecological stewardship, and cultural heritage. Led by local guides, employees visited the community and learned about everyday life in Donghaiku through its irrigation canals and traditional Hakka stories. By removing golden apple snails from rice paddies and trying their hand at rice cultivation, participants gained a deeper understanding of ecological conservation and local agriculture. They also made "niu wen shui", a traditional Hakka rice dessert, and tried screen-printing, experiencing the warmth of traditional craftsmanship firsthand. Team competitions and interactive games were thoughtfully incorporated into the program, enabling local knowledge to be shared naturally through experience and helping employees and students see the value of people, land, and community thriving together.

Beyond events and experiences, the TSMC Charity Foundation turned its commitment to supporting local communities into concrete action by prioritizing the purchase of locally made screen-printed souvenirs and traditional Hakka brown sugar cake as gifts, helping sustain local culture and industries. Going forward, the Foundation will continue to connect TSMC volunteers with local partners and expand the One-Day Local Volunteer Program to communities surrounding more TSMC sites. By encouraging employees to engage with neighborhoods and contribute to community development, the Foundation aims to generate positive cycles through volunteer service and fulfill its sustainability commitment to creating shared value with society.

• What is the TSMC Charity Foundation's "One-Day Local Volunteer Program"?
  To diversify volunteer services, the TSMC Charity Foundation launched the "One-Day Local Volunteer Program," guiding employees to explore natural and cultural sites near TSMC facilities to strengthen their sense of belonging.  
  
  
• How does the TSMC Charity Foundation build a local co-learning network?
  By integrating cross-sector expertise, the Foundation transforms academic and field knowledge into immersive experiences. NTHU designs walking routes based on field research; local teams curate stories of community history, agriculture, and crafts; while TSMC HR uses communication and facilitation skills to support employees and students on their journey.