During the holiday season, many organizations seek meaningful opportunities to give back. This time of year offers a perfect chance for HR professionals to lead charitable giving campaigns that not only engage employees but also make a lasting impact on both the community and the organization.
Organizations that embrace corporate social responsibility (CSR) are more likely to attract and retain top talent. A study by the Boston College Center for Corporate Citizenship found that nearly 80% of organizations with CSR initiatives saw reduced employee turnover. That highlights how integrating charitable efforts into organizational practices fosters a more engaged and loyal workforce.
Even the smallest donation or act of service can make a difference. For example, a $1-a-day donation from 100 employees can generate around $36,500 in just one year, which could transform the work of local nonprofits, enabling them to expand their services and support more individuals in need.
While not all employees can give financially, there are other valuable ways to contribute, such as volunteering time or skills to support charitable efforts. By creating various opportunities for involvement, a well-executed charitable giving campaign fosters a culture of generosity that extends beyond the holiday season, benefiting employees, the organization, and the broader community.
Starting a Charitable Giving Campaign
According to America's Charities, 80% of employees are more likely to donate through workplace giving campaigns when they can choose a cause they care about. HR professionals can lead these efforts by leveraging their unique understanding of employee engagement and organizational culture. Here's how to begin:
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Form a Charitable Committee: Gather a group of employees passionate about making a difference. This committee will help organize the campaign, select charity partners, and promote participation throughout the organization.
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Partner with Local Charities: Collaborating with local 501(c)(3) organizations enables your organization to impact the community directly. Charitable partners often provide resources, communication support, volunteer opportunities, and educational tools to inform employees about the various missions.
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Set Up Payroll Contributions: Implement payroll deductions, allowing employees to donate a portion of their salary to a charity. This method is especially effective for remote employees or those who prefer a more flexible giving option. Many charities can also provide reports for seamless tracking of employee contributions.
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Host Events: Boost engagement by organizing fun, interactive events like donation drives, volunteer days, silent auctions, or friendly competitions. These activities encourage participation and strengthen team bonds.
Maximizing an Existing Campaign
If your organization already has a charitable giving program, there are several ways to take it to the next level, including the following:
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Expand Communication: Regularly highlight the campaign's successes through newsletters, meetings, and digital platforms like Slack or Teams. Encourage employees to share personal stories about why they give, which can inspire others to get involved.
Charitable-giving programs are a win-win for everyone involved. Employees feel more engaged, the community benefits, and the organization fosters a culture of generosity and social responsibility. By offering simple ways to contribute, such as payroll deductions and volunteer opportunities, HR can help cultivate a lasting culture of giving that extends well beyond the holiday season.
If you need assistance setting up or enhancing a charitable giving program, please contact Employers Council.
Chelsea Jensen is a human resources consultant for Employers Council.