Each workplace is a part of a greater community. By implementing employee volunteer programs, not only will the community benefit, but so will the staff and the workplace as a whole.
“We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give,” said Winston Churchill. What makes a community is the people who work and live within its borders. If we move in and out of the community without acknowledging its existence, it will suffer, which in turn, makes us suffer. Volunteering is a great way to give back to the community and recognize the benefits of your local area.
The Benefits of Employee Volunteer Programs
Employees tend to go back and forth from work to home without much thought to their surrounding environment. This makes the daily grind seem mundane and doesn’t allow us to be a part of something that is bigger than ourselves. When employees participate in volunteer programs, they are not only benefitting the community, but also themselves and their workplace.
When employees volunteer, they begin to appreciate their surroundings and the people they make contact with on a daily basis, including customers and clients. This, in turn, will help them connect on a personal level with the very people they do business with. It will also help co-workers bond over something important, outside of work, creating a more friendly office environment.
Volunteering also offers great exposure for the business, as well. When the community sees that you are giving back, they are more likely to view your business in a positive light. These community members therefore become more likely to patronize your business.
How to Get Started Volunteering
If you, your company, and your employees would like to experience the benefits of volunteering first hand, start by doing the following:
- Research opportunities for volunteerism: Take the time to look up local charities and non-profit organizations in your area. You can even meet with them to find out more about their purpose, mission, and goals.
- Pick a charity (or several) to work with: Once you have researched opportunities to volunteer, pick one (or more) that seemed closest to your heart. The more passionate you or your employees are about the cause, the more likely they are to stick to their volunteering responsibilities.
- Lead by example: As the business owner, it is your duty to incite enthusiasm and responsibility when it comes to volunteering. Don’t be afraid to jump into a cause, others will certainly follow.
As an avid volunteer, I have had experience with a variety of charities, non-profits, and other fundraising events. I highly recommend making volunteering a part of your life and business structure.
Per Wickstrom is the founder and CEO of Best Drug Rehabilitation, one of the top holistic rehabilitation centers in the country. He found sobriety after a decades-long struggle with addiction and has since dedicated his life and career to helping others find the same life-affirming success he has. His program is based on natural and holistic methods and has helped lead hundreds to recovery. Connect with Per via Twitter or Facebook.