Work — and workers — are trying to right-size after the chaos of the pandemic, and engagement has been a big problem. At least a quarter of workers worldwide have burnout symptoms, and more than three-quarters say they’re disengaged.
Volunteering, however, can address these problems by reducing stress. One study shows that 79% of employees who volunteer are more satisfied at work, while 62% value their company’s support of nonprofit organizations. Helping others in their community gives employees a more positive outlook, which can carry over to work. Employees who believe their managers and employer are empathetic are less likely to call in sick or report burnout, Stanford University research psychologist Jamil Zaki says. Companies that sponsor volunteering opportunities for employees clearly benefit, and that’s why many offer paid time off for volunteering, which further enhances workplace engagement.
“Our colleagues had so much fun, were super engaged and motivated by the fact that they were making a meaningful difference for students within our community.”
— Esra Elshafey
Pitney Bowes’ associate manager of global corporate citizenship and philanthropy
Deciding which organizations to support — and then coordinating the individual opportunities or events for employees — can be tricky for HR directors and other company leaders. Shawnee Knight and Tina Kramer have helped fill that gap in New York and Connecticut’s Fairfield, Westchester, and Putnam counties. Their nonprofit Filling in the Blanks provides corporate partners with meaningful, hands-on opportunities to be a part of the local fight against hunger. They arrange engaging volunteer events at their Norwalk warehouse, and can even bring a meal-packing event to the corporate campus. Knight, Kramer and FITB board member Chris LaSusa of Paloma Partners share their experiences with workplace volunteering.
What’s the biggest problem employers encounter with volunteering options, and how does Filling in the Blanks make the process easier for companies?
Knight: The biggest challenge employers face with volunteering options is finding opportunities that are both meaningful and easy to coordinate for their teams. Filling in the Blanks, founded in 2013, eliminates this barrier by offering streamlined, impactful ways for companies to get involved. With an average of 25 employees per company volunteering, teams can pack and even hand out fresh food at the mobile pantry, directly supporting children facing food insecurity. Having served over 3 million meals to date, our programs are simple to organize and highly rewarding, ensuring that companies can focus on making a difference without the logistical headaches.
Filling in the Blanks isn’t just a one-and-done organization, like a holiday toy drive. How has it become a part of the community?
Kramer: “Filling in the Blanks has become an integral part of the community by consistently addressing the critical issue of childhood hunger year-round, not just during the holidays. Its ongoing efforts to provide weekend meals to children who might otherwise go hungry have built trust and lasting relationships with local families, schools and organizations. Through its sustained presence, the organization has cultivated a sense of shared responsibility and belonging, inspiring volunteers and donors to actively participate in its mission. By staying deeply engaged, Filling in the Blanks has evolved from a service provider into a cornerstone of the community, uniting people around the shared goal of ensuring no child goes hungry.
Why did you choose to partner with Filling in the Blanks for your company’s volunteering options?
LaSusa: Our team has been deeply committed to supporting Filling in the Blanks, both through financial contributions and active and regular employee volunteerism. As a board member, I get to play an even bigger role in bridging the gap for children facing food insecurity while fostering a culture of giving within our team.
What changes have you seen in the workplace and in your employees since connecting with Filling in the Blanks?
LaSusa: Since partnering with Filling in the Blanks, we’ve seen a shift in our team’s culture. Employees feel more engaged and united, knowing their efforts are making a tangible impact on children’s lives. Volunteering has fostered a deeper sense of purpose and collaboration, while the partnership has reinforced our team’s commitment to community service and social responsibility.
Get more details on corporate partnering and volunteering with Filling in the Blanks.
Opinions expressed by SmartBrief contributors are their own.