introduction

Businesses of all sizes are increasingly involved in employee volunteer programs. This trend reflects the social commitment of management as well as recognizing the fact that not only do these programs benefit the community, but the business as well. Businesses have long been involved in social initiatives, primarily through corporate philanthropy as well as promoting social causes and making contributions to causes based on sales of product. The emergence of employee volunteering adds to the corporate model of being a socially responsible part of the community.

Both philanthropy and volunteering are needed to address the needs of a community. Through corporate volunteer programs, many businesses focus on areas in which they are physically located. This may be in small town USA or a remote area in Africa. The corporation, via the efforts of its employees is seen to be a concerned, caring entity invested in the communities in which it does business.

Among the core values of many businesses is the recognition that they can do more than occupy space within an area. They can be seen as contributing to the social fabric and addressing neighborhood needs. Having employees involved in local efforts allows the business to be seen as a partner as opposed to an impersonal corporate structure.

The following pages will highlight the reasons to create an employee volunteer program, give some examples of program possibilities, tell you about corporate volunteer councils, and list some resources to help you on your way. Many businesses will wish to gift Giving from Your Heart to their employees in order to inform and to stimulate interest in volunteering.

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