Volunteering Boosts Morale, Loyalty

In many ways, giving back goes a long way!

By Mike Munoz On Aug 14, 2018

Employee morale is a key factor in every organization’s success. When employees genuinely enjoy coming to work each day – despite the challenges that can arise in any given sector – a company has succeeded as an employer.

There are a number of ways to impact employee satisfaction, but one thing that has proven to have a profound influence is providing employee’s with opportunities to volunteer.

According to Deloitte’s recently released 2017 Volunteerism Study, nearly 90 percent of working Americans believe companies that provide volunteer opportunities to their employees offer a better work environment than those who don’t. However, just 38 percent said their employer provides such opportunities.

Regardless of a company’s size, giving back to the local community – whether it’s through financial or hands-on support – enables those communities to thrive. Corporate volunteerism is also a great retention tool.

Fifty-two percent of millennials who frequently participate in workplace volunteer activities are more likely to feel very loyal to their employers, compared to just 33 percent of millennials who rarely or never volunteer, according to the eighth annual Deloitte Volunteer IMPACT Survey. These numbers are important because a report by the Brookings Institute predicts that millennials will make up 75 percent of the American workforce by 2025.

Volunteer opportunities in any given community are abundant. Employers can take the first step by showing support for employees to step away from their desks. Some have implemented an annual day of service. Others offer a set number of paid-time off hours each year to encourage volunteerism. Both create opportunities for employees to engage in teambuilding activities outside the confines of the office, which ultimately can help boost comradery and morale.

Internal tools and resources like e-mail, a company newsletter or intranet site can help drum up interest. Social media is a great way to promote a positive brand image by showcasing a company’s commitment to the communities they serve, with live posts from events featuring employees working together in support of a great cause.

One thing is certain – showing support starts at the top. When senior leaders engage with employees at all levels through volunteerism it delivers a clear message – everyone is on the same team. Making these connections can have invaluable impacts, such as encouraging a more open dialogue between management and employees.

The opportunity to give back is a job perk that you may not be able to put a dollar value on, but it goes a long way.

About the Author: Mike Munoz is market president at AmeriHealth New Jersey. An active leader in the local NJ communities, he currently sits on the boards of the United Way of Greater Philadelphia & Southern New Jersey, South Jersey March of Dimes, CARES Institute, and Chamber of Commerce Southern New Jersey.

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