Target community service efforts at serious social problems in the community. Survey employees to determine their interests in working on specific issues and conduct community needs assessments to determine the most pressing community needs. Focus projects and efforts so that they address serious, systemic problems. Conduct regular evaluation of the impact of employee volunteer efforts on the community. To determine community needs for employee volunteers, a company's volunteer program manager can contact the local Volunteer Center or United Way.
Recognition is an important element of any corporate volunteer program.
Employees are recruited to volunteer through publicity in all available employee communication vehicles, such as newsletters and publications, and through direct recruitment by other employees who are coordinating the volunteer effort. Written corporate policies help sustain corporate commitment to volunteering even in times of change. Seeking ongoing CEO endorsement and involvement, developing a release time policy that allows employees time off the job for volunteering, developing a loaned personnel program, providing monetary grants for service, and making volunteer experience a part of the job application all support employee involvement. Evaluating and communicating the benefits of the program to all departments is very important to sustaining management commitment. CharityVillage Ltd. All rights reserved.