How to Get Your Business Involved in Volunteering!
Volunteering is one of those things that benefits everyone – your business, your employees, and the community. When you get involved, you’re not just giving back, you’re building a stronger, more connected company that’s both purpose-driven and people-centered. Plus, who doesn’t love a little good karma?
For businesses in Niagara, supporting your community through volunteering can help create a positive company culture and even boost your brand's reputation. If you’re ready to make volunteering a part of your business, here are some fun and easy strategies to get started!
1. Make Volunteering Part of Your Business DNA
The first step is to make volunteering official. Create a simple volunteering policy that lets everyone know how they can get involved. This policy can outline what types of volunteering are supported, how much time employees can take off to volunteer, and any special company-wide volunteer events. This way, everyone is on the same page – and it feels natural to get involved.
2. Give Employees Time to Volunteer (And Pay Them for It!)
Nothing makes volunteering easier than giving your employees time off to do it. Paid Volunteer Time Off (VTO) is a win-win: employees can volunteer without losing pay, and your business gets a reputation for supporting the community. Whether it’s a few hours a month or a full day a year, offering VTO is an easy way to show that you value social responsibility as much as your bottom line
3. Partner Up with Local Charities and Nonprofits
Working with local nonprofits is a great way to make a real impact. You don’t have to go far – many amazing organizations in Niagara are looking for support. Find causes that match your company’s values and create volunteering opportunities together. At Innovate Niagara, businesses can partner with groups focused on innovation, entrepreneurship, or environmental sustainability.
Whether it’s helping run an event, raising funds, or volunteering directly, your business will be able to make a big difference.
4. Give Employees a Choice in How They Volunteer
Everyone has their own idea of what makes a difference. Some might love working with animals, while others are passionate about education or environmental causes. Give your employees the freedom to choose how they want to volunteer. You can even send out a quick survey to find out what causes resonate with your team. When people get to volunteer in areas they care about, it’s much more rewarding – and they’ll be more excited to participate.
5. Turn Volunteering into a Team-Building Activity
Volunteering doesn’t just help the community; it’s also a great way to build stronger teams. Organize group volunteer events like park clean-ups, charity runs, or working at a food bank. These activities give your team the chance to bond outside of work while making a positive impact. Plus, it’s fun! You might even find that your team starts working better together after spending some time volunteering.6. Make Volunteering Easy to Find
Keep your employees in the loop about upcoming volunteer opportunities. Share them regularly through emails, newsletters, or even a dedicated section on your intranet or social media. When people know what’s available, it’s much easier to get involved. Plus, the more options you offer, the more likely employees are to jump in.
7. Shout Out to Your Volunteers
Everyone loves a little recognition! Celebrate your employees who volunteer by giving them shout-outs at meetings or posting about their efforts on social media. You could even create an “Employee of the Month” program that highlights community involvement. Recognizing your team for their volunteer work shows that you appreciate their efforts and encourages others to get involved, too.
8. Track the Impact (And Feel Good About It!)
You don’t have to just hope your volunteering efforts are making a difference – track it! Measure the hours your team spends volunteering, how much money you raise for charity, or the number of lives touched by your efforts. Seeing those numbers grow will make you feel great about what you’re doing, and you can share the success with your employees and the community. It’s a win for everyone!
Volunteering is a Win-Win
Incorporating volunteering into your business is a win for your company, your team, and your community. It builds a positive work culture, boosts employee morale, and helps create meaningful connections. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to give back to the region you call home. At Innovate Niagara, fostering community involvement is key to making a difference while growing a successful business. Volunteering isn’t just about helping others – it’s also about creating a stronger, more purpose-driven company. So, get out there, have fun, and make a lasting impact!