Volunteering and How to Give Back at Your Event

“At the end of the day it’s not about what you have or even what you’ve accomplished. It’s about who you’ve lifted up, who you’ve made better. It’s about what you’ve given back.” – Denzel Washington

When planning an event it’s very easy to put all your focus and energy on the education and networking components because that’s how companies measure the value of the event. Planners should actually consider the many benefits of incorporating a group volunteering project into the event.

Why?

Simply put- It gives us the feels. In a recent Forbes article Brett Steenbarger, Clinical Associate Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Science at SUNY stated that “when we experience ourselves as givers, we receive a deep and enduring affirmation of our value to others.” Setting aside time to give back as an organization is a demonstration of gratitude, something we all crave from those we serve.

America’s Charities reports that 82% of employees want the opportunity to volunteer with peers in a corporate supported event. Millennials in particular are drawn to socially and environmentally responsible organizations.

Psssst! It actually IS a networking event with a little less pressure. Since people connect in different ways this provides us introverts with an opportunity to bond without having to be stellar conversationalists.

Finally, studies show volunteering can reduce blood pressure, stress levels, and anxiety… and who doesn’t need that?

Who?

How do you decide what organization to partner with? There are innumerable resources for selecting a charity. Sites like charitynavigator.com and charitywatch.org even rate legitimacy.

Maybe your organization already has a charitable partner, which could make the selection process an easy one. If not, look for something that aligns with your company values and/or the talents of your employees. For example, a restaurant could sponsor dinner and serve a meal at a food pantry. 

It’s always nice to give back to a local charity. Depending on your attendees, this may or may not be a good idea. An attendee from Denver might not connect as much with a local philanthropy in Atlanta.

How?

In terms of executing the event, there are many considerations, and with most things, the better the planning the more successful the event will be. I found a great template on Wespire.com- https://www.wespire.com/resource/volunteer-event-planning-template/. In summary:

• Start with a goal, i.e. paint 10 houses, sew 20 quilts, etc.
• Determine your budget
• Check with your legal team for any concerns/implications related to executing the activity
• Form a Committee
• Create a task list and update your progress

 “Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much.” –Helen Keller