In a recent report from the Associated Press, it was highlighted that workplace volunteering is becoming increasingly popular among employees, with more companies offering robust volunteer programs to meet the desires of their workers for in-person connections, professional growth, and socially conscious employers. Michelle Barbin, who has been working for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts for nearly 19 years, finds true satisfaction in applying her professional skills towards supporting resource-strapped nonprofits. She credits her leadership in volunteering activities for helping her secure a new position within the company, emphasizing that these opportunities play a significant role in why she stays with the organization.
According to a survey by the Association of Corporate Citizenship Professionals, more than 60% of respondents reported increased participation in employee volunteer activities last year. The report also highlighted that even employees who don’t volunteer themselves feel better about working for companies with strong public-spirited cultures. Research from University of Georgia management professor Jessica Rodell suggests that companies with robust volunteer programs tend to have lower turnover rates. Volunteering is seen as a tool that can help employees invest more in their company and feel a deeper sense of purpose in their work, thereby reducing the likelihood of them seeking employment elsewhere.
Jesse Weissman, who works at Microsoft, initially did not consider workplace volunteering as an important aspect of his professional life, but after joining the company, he began mentoring students of color through the organization’s partnerships with local nonprofits. Experts caution that not all volunteer activities are created equal, with meaningful and time-intensive programs having a greater impact on volunteers. Companies like Blue Cross Blue Shield offer a range of volunteering opportunities, from one-day projects to long-term partnerships, allowing employees to choose activities that align with their interests and skills.
Integrating giving into volunteer programs can also engage busier, seasoned employees with less time to serve, enhancing their involvement with nonprofits. Liberty Mutual, for example, matches employee gifts to eligible charities and provides incentives for volunteers to earn grants for their chosen charity. Employees have been involved in long-term consulting projects with organizations like More Than Words, a nonprofit in Boston that supports youth in need, demonstrating a deep commitment to making a difference in their community. These partnerships not only benefit nonprofits but also contribute to employee engagement and satisfaction within their companies.
As younger employees enter the workforce, the importance of forging strong connections between companies and nonprofits becomes increasingly valuable. Gen Z is expected to overtake Baby Boomers in the workforce, providing an opportunity for meaningful partnerships that can benefit both parties. Companies like Blue Cross Blue Shield have seen their employees make significant contributions to nonprofits, extending beyond just financial support to genuine engagement and involvement in the organizations’ missions. These long-term relationships can lead to increased support and funding for nonprofits, ultimately making a positive impact on communities and society as a whole.
The report also highlights the importance of authentic and meaningful relationships between companies and nonprofits, emphasizing that workplace volunteering should not just be a performative measure. Employees who are genuinely invested in the causes they support can make a significant impact, both through their volunteer work and through additional contributions such as donations. By fostering these deep connections and partnerships, companies can not only benefit their employees but also make a meaningful difference in their communities. Overall, workplace volunteering is becoming an increasingly valuable tool for companies to engage their employees, reduce turnover, and make a positive impact on society.
