Giving Back Pays Forward
This article was written by Sophie Blondeau, Chief Strategy Officer at Sowen. Sophie helps companies and nonprofits define, execute, and measure strategies and activities that are at the intersection of doing good and doing well. She combines her decades in the advertisement industry with a deep understanding of data driven design, audience centricity, and cutting edge innovation.
TL:DR
Volunteer Time Off (VTO) is gaining momentum in the corporate world for its potential to be a social impact multiplier. Did you know that 60% of companies offer employees paid time off to volunteer? As you consider your giving options as either an organizational leader or as an employee, I urge you to consider VTO, a simple initiative that holds great potential for creating a long-lasting ripple effect in your community.
What is VTO?
Volunteer Time Off (VTO) is a relatively new phenomenon in the corporate world that is gaining momentum as companies struggle with their ESG initiatives yet recognize that social responsibility is not just good for business but also for their employees and the communities they serve.
Traditionally, employees were granted paid time off for personal reasons such as vacations or illness, but VTO takes this a step further by providing dedicated time for employees to engage in volunteer work. This emerging trend reflects a shift in the priorities of both employees and employers, placing emphasis on social impact and community involvement.
VTO programs vary from company to company, with some offering a few hours per year and others providing a certain number of days off. The flexibility of VTO allows employees to choose the causes they are passionate about and get involved in meaningful ways. By encouraging employees to give back, companies are not only making a positive difference in the community but increasing employee satisfaction and well-being.
The Multiplier Effect
One of the key aspects of Volunteer Time Off (VTO) is the empowerment it provides to employees. By offering dedicated time for volunteer work, companies are sending a powerful message to their employees – their contributions and passions matter beyond the walls of the office. It also fosters a sense of pride and purpose among the workforce. Statistics show that employees are five times more engaged in companies with employee volunteer programs (source: Galaxy Digital)
Through VTO, employees are given the opportunity to engage with causes that resonate with them personally. This sense of choice and agency fosters a greater sense of purpose and fulfillment in their work. It allows them to align their values with their actions and make a positive impact in their communities. Furthermore, VTO encourages employees to develop and apply new skills. Whether it's through organizing a volunteer event or working on a community project, employees gain valuable experience in leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving. These skills not only benefit them in their personal and professional lives but also contribute to the growth and development of the company as a whole.
Empowered employees are more likely to be motivated, engaged, and committed to their work. They become brand ambassadors for their company, proudly representing their employer's commitment to social responsibility. This empowerment has a ripple effect, inspiring other employees to get involved and create a culture of giving back.
As VTO programs become more widespread, they create a ripple effect of community engagement and collaboration. Employees who participate in volunteer work often become advocates for their companies, spreading the message of social responsibility and encouraging others to follow suit. This not only benefits the communities they serve but also strengthens the reputation and brand image of the companies. Consumers are demanding that corporations make social responsibility efforts tangible and locally relevant. VTO delivers on both.
VTO In Action
We road-tested VTO as Sowen recently, and it was simple and successful. As the world events were coming to a crescendo, so did my feeling of powerlessness. I decided that the best way to move forward was to focus my attention on what I could do to alleviate suffering in my community. I chose CT Foodshare, a local organization that fights food insecurity and whose mission is “to deliver an informed and equitable response to hunger by mobilizing community partners, volunteers, and supporters. “ I proposed a detailed action plan for my VTO to our CEO, who was very receptive. I included the following:
Why it was important to me
The organization I chose
How it would benefit the community and enhance our company's ESG commitment.
The logistics, including the time commitment
On a recent Tuesday morning, I showed up for my three-hour volunteer shift and was met by Cat Carmat, the CT Foodshare GM. She managed our team of volunteers flawlessly. She trained us to be the most efficient and educated volunteers in no time. More importantly, she shared the impact and importance of our work for those in our community who are facing food insecurity on a daily basis. I came back energized and feeling re-empowered. I am filled with gratitude for our Founder, Ori Carmel, for aligning our employee initiatives with our corporate mission in an authentic and practical way. I have a renewed sense of personal and professional purpose for our community and our company. My hope is that everyone will get this opportunity and spread the multiplier effect of VTO.
Ready To Go For The Triple Win?
VTO is possible for any organization, no matter the size. The key is just starting. It doesn’t have to be complicated or fancy. Here are the key elements:
Define a simple VTO trial
Communicate the VTO trial policy to all employees
Get the executive team to lead by example by taking VTO
Collect the results and impact of the VTO trial.
Communicate the impact internally and externally.
As VTO gains momentum in the corporate world, its potential to create a multiplier effect on social impact, employee well-being, and business performance is clear. This Giving Tuesday, take the first step and design a VTO for your organization and shape the future of corporate philanthropy.
If you want to share your VTO stories, please get in touch at sophieblondeau@sowen.co.
