Enhancing Wellbeing and Organisational Impact Through Corporate Volunteering

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Written by: Maria Kalogianni, HR professional 

Introduction

A few months ago, I joined a local community cleanup organised by an environmental group. As we worked together to clear litter from nearby streets and parks, I was struck by the sense of teamwork and shared purpose. People from all walks of life came together with one goal: to clean and restore our environment. It was a powerful reminder of how volunteering not only helps our communities but also enriches us personally.

This experience got me thinking: what if we brought that same energy and unity into the workplace? It inspired me to explore how corporate volunteering could boost employee wellbeing and strengthen organisations. By encouraging such initiatives, companies can create a sense of purpose and connection among employees, leading to a more motivated and resilient workforce.

In today’s competitive corporate landscape, enhancing employee wellbeing while contributing to societal impact is essential. Corporate volunteering programs provide a strategic solution, offering dual benefits: improving workplace morale and driving meaningful community engagement. Supported by research and industry best practices, this article explores the benefits of corporate volunteering, its influence on organisational success, and practical steps for implementation.

Wellbeing Benefits of Corporate Volunteering

1.Building Social Connections

• Social bonds are a cornerstone of mental health, and corporate volunteering is a powerful way to strengthen them. According to the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, fostering meaningful connections through volunteering combats loneliness and enhances happiness. These positive effects lead to more collaborative and emotionally resilient workplace dynamics. Volunteering initiatives encourage interaction across departments, breaking down silos and fostering unity and teamwork. This interconnectedness benefits newcomers by making them feel welcome and also strengthens the bonds among existing employees, creating a cohesive and supportive work environment.

2.Fostering Purpose and Alignment

• Employees involved in corporate volunteering report greater alignment with their organisation’s values. According to the Benevity State of Volunteering 2024, this alignment not only increases job satisfaction but also enhances employee retention by creating a shared sense of purpose.

3.Reducing Stress and Enhancing Resilience

• Volunteering can act as a counterbalance to workplace stress. Research from Our World in Data shows that altruistic acts, including volunteering, release endorphins and reduce cortisol levels, fostering overall wellbeing.

Organisational Benefits of Corporate Volunteering

Corporate volunteering is a strategic tool for businesses aiming to enhance their reputation, employee engagement, and customer trust:

• Higher Employee Engagement: A Deloitte Purpose Survey found that organisations with robust volunteering initiatives reported significantly higher engagement levels.

• Improved Brand Image: Companies demonstrating a commitment to social responsibility are increasingly favored by customers and stakeholders.

Addressing Challenges and Designing Effective Programs

To maximise the benefits of corporate volunteering, thoughtful design and execution are key. Experts like Jessica Rodell and Florencio Portocarrero stress the importance of aligning volunteering opportunities with employee interests and organizational goals. These programs should complement other workplace wellbeing strategies, such as equitable pay and flexible work policies.

Key Considerations:

• Avoid overemphasizing volunteering as a solution to systemic workplace issues.

• Ensure inclusivity by offering diverse volunteering options that cater to varied employee needs.

Implementing Successful Corporate Volunteering Programs

Steps to Take:

• Align Initiatives with Company Values: Choose causes that resonate with your organisation’s mission and employee interests.

• Incorporate Flexibility: Provide paid volunteering days and a variety of opportunities to ensure accessibility.

• Measure and Communicate Impact: Regularly evaluate the program’s success and share achievements to inspire participation.

• Integrate Volunteering into Broader Wellbeing Strategies: Combine these programs with other workplace wellbeing efforts for a holistic approach.

Leading by example:

• Salesforce: Utilizes Philanthropy Cloud to align employees’ values with volunteering opportunities, boosting engagement.

• Microsoft: Matches employee donations and volunteer hours, promoting a culture of giving.

• IBM: Sends employees to developing countries for social projects, enhancing leadership skills and global awareness.

Conclusion

Corporate volunteering is a transformative strategy that enhances employee wellbeing while driving meaningful impact. By designing programs that are authentic, inclusive, and aligned with broader organisational goals, companies can create a thriving workforce and contribute to a more connected society. Investing in corporate volunteering isn’t just good for employees and communities—it’s a cornerstone of sustainable business success.

About the Author:

Maria Kalogianni is a dedicated Human Resources professional specializing in employee experience, well-being, and the future of work. With a Master in Human Resources Management from the Athens University of Economics and Business, she brings expertise in talent acquisition, employee engagement, and strategic HR operations. Currently based in Brussels, Maria works as a Human Resources Associate for Marken, focusing on creating inclusive, high-performing workplaces where employees feel supported and empowered. 

Maria has been the participant in the first cohort of our Wellbeing Leadership Mastery Journey.

Learn more: Maria Kalogianni